2003-2004 USAP Field Season Table of Contents Project Indexes … · 2014. 1. 30. · Winter Season...

2003-2004 USAP Field Season

Table of Contents

Project Indexes

Project Websites

Station Schedules

Technical Events

Environmental and Health & SafetyInitiatives


Table of Contents

Project Indexes

Project Websites

Station Schedules

Technical Events

Environmental and Health & SafetyInitiatives


Project Indexes

Project websites

List of projects by principal

investigator

List of projects by USAP program

List of projects by institution

List of projects by station

List of projects by event number

digits

List of deploying team members

Teachers Experiencing AntarcticaScouting In Antarctica

Technical EventsMedia Visitors


USAP Station Schedules

Click on the station name below to retrieve a list of projects supported by that station.

Austral Summer SeasonOpenings

AustralWinterSeasonOpening

Estimated Population

Station Operational Science Summer Winter

McMurdo20 August

2003(WinFly*)

01 September2003

(mainbody)

23 February2004

890 (weeklyaverage)

2,900 (total)

187(winter total)

SouthPole

24 October2003

30 October2003

15 February2004

232 (weeklyaverage) 650 (total)

72(winter total)

Palmer27-

September-2003

17 October2003 8 April 2004

34-44 (weeklyaverage) 75 (total)

40(winter total)

ResearchVessels

Year-round operations

Vessel schedules on the Internet:http://www.polar.org/science/marine.

RV/IB NBP RV LMG39 science &

staff25 crew

32 science & staff25 crew

Field Camps Air Support * A limited number of science projects deploy at WinFly.

http://www.polar.org/science/marine


Technical Events

Every field season, the USAP sponsors a variety of technicalevents that are not scientific research projects but support one ormore science projects.

NASA GSFC NASA Goddard Space Flight Center: NAILS, MTRS1, MTRS2, andSPTR

T-008-M

ICDS Ice Core Drilling Services T-150-M

Scripps AARC Arctic and Antarctic Research Center at Scripps Institution ofOceanography

T-312-M/P/S

CTBT Installation, operation and maintenance of a Comprehensive TestBan Treaty class infrasound array in Windless Bight, Antarctica

T-396-M

MGS NASA/McMurdo Ground Station T-927-M

NASAGSFC

NAILS, MTRS1, MTRS2, and SPTR

Event #: T-008-M Station: McMurdo

Work Site: McMurdo Station Team Leader: Michael Comberiate

Affiliation: NASA Goddard Space Flight CenterCode 422Building 16W, Room N066Greenbelt, MD 20771301.286.2165 [email protected]

http://www.gsfc.nasa.gov/

ProjectDescription:

NASA researchers will perform maintenance andupgrades to their systems during the Austral

mailto:[email protected]%20

http://www.gsfc.nasa.gov/

2003-2004 summer season:

NAILS two-meter satellite tracking station onRoss Island:

Perform system checkup, test and repair ifnecessaryExamine spares, reorganize, andretrograde old equipment and equipmentfor Antarctic Museum display

MTRS1 and MTRS2 TDRS uplink station onBlack Island:

Perform system checkup, repair ifnecessary

The project team will work with a staffcommunications technician for reconfigurationsand repairs. Except for AC power, heat, andinternet support to the project team's equipment,normal operations will require no support fromMcMurdo station contractor support personnel.One communications technician will be neededin the vicinity of the equipment during launchsupport of NOAA 17 (launched in June 2002)and the DMSP satellite launch scheduled forOctober.

ICDS Ice Core Drilling Services (ICDS)

Event #: T-150-M/S Station: South Pole Station

Work Site: USGC observatory 8 kilometers from South PoleStation

Team Leader: Dr. Charles R. Bentley Affiliation: University of Wisconsin Madison

Department of Geology and Geophysics1215 W. Dayton StreetMadison, WI [email protected]

http://www.ssec.wisc.edu/a3ri/icds/

ProjectDescription:

Supporting Rhett Butler's project, G-090-S, theSouth Pole-based project team will operate theICDS 4-inch drill system to complete reaming outthe last 12" diameter borehole to a depth ofabout 300 meters.

The ICDS team will commute eight kilometers

mailto:[email protected]

http://www.ssec.wisc.edu/a3ri/icds/

out of South Pole station to the USGSobservatory.

Team members will also inventory and maintainICDS drills and supplies in McMurdo.

ScrippsAARC

Arctic and Antarctic Research Center atScripps Institution of Oceanography(AARC), TeraScan project

Event #: T-312-M/N/P

Station: McMurdo and Palmer Stations, RV/IB NathanielB. Palmer

Work Site: TeraScan computer installations Team Leader: Dr. Dan Lubin

Affiliation: Scripps Institution of OceanographyArctic and Antarctic Research Center (AARC)California Space Institute9500 Gilman Drive, mail code 0214La Jolla, CA [email protected]://arcane.ucsd.edu

Project

Description:The AARC is funded to archive and distribute allNOAA and DMSP (Defense MeteorologicalSatellite Program) data collected south of 60degrees. The data from polar orbiting satellitesare collected by ground stations at McMurdo andPalmer Stations aboard the RV/IB Nathaniel B.Palmer. It is distributed by ARCC to the scientificcommunity and to support contractormeteorologists for forecasting.

No project team will be traveling to Antarcticathis season. Support contractor technicians willcollect data from each TeraScan-equippedstation. Data collection is scheduled for themaximum coverage and quantity of NOAA andDMSP data for the McMurdo region on a year-round basis. Before sending the data out, ARCCpersonnel check it for quality by reading andprocessing random collected passes.

CTBTInstallation, operation and maintenanceof a Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty(CTBT) class infrasound array in


http://arcane.ucsd.edu/

Windless Bight, AntarcticaEvent #: T-396-M Station: McMurdo

Work Site: Windless BightTeam Leader: Mr. Daniel L. Osborne

Affiliation: University of Alaska FairbanksGeophysical Institute903 Koyukuk AvenueP.O. Box 757320Fairbanks, AK [email protected]://www.gi.alaska.edu/~jvo/newinfrasound/...infrasound/members.htm

ProjectDescription:

This group operates and maintains a CTBT(Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty) infrasoundarray at Windless Bight, Ross Island.

Project team members will refuel and service thepower system at the Windless Bight installation.Team members will establish a camp at the siteand spend about two weeks in the field.

Data from the Windless Bight system isforwarded to the CTBT office in Vienna, as wellas to the principal investigator's home institutionwhere it will be made available for research intothe natural infrasonic background.

MGS NASA/McMurdo Ground Station (MGS)

Event #: T-927-M Station: McMurdo

Work Site: McMurdo Station

Team Leader: Mr. Ken Griffin

Affiliation: Honeywell Technical Solutions, Inc.NASA Wallops Flight FacilityBuilding E-106, Room 209Wallops Island, VA 23337757.824.2478 [email protected] http://www.wff.nasa.gov/~code452/mcmurdo.html

ProjectDescription:

NASA’s McMurdo Ground Station (MGS)performs critical support for countdown, liftoff andearly-orbit phases of satellite launchingoperations. It also tracks a variety of in-orbitscientific (TRACE, FAST, WIRE, SWAS, GRACE1 and 2, SAC-C, CHAMP, etc.) and mapping


http://www.gi.alaska.edu/%7Ejvo/newinfrasound/infrasound/members.htm

http://www.gi.alaska.edu/%7Ejvo/newinfrasound/infrasound/members.htm


http://www.wff.nasa.gov/%7Ecode452/mcmurdo.html

(Radarsat, Lansat-7,QuikSCAT, ERS-2, etc.)satellites. MGS supplies real time data (downlink)and commanding (uplink) support to a variety ofprojects via NASA’s dedicated 128Kbit data line.Voice support is through a dedicated 16Kbitvoice loop with Goddard Space Flight Center.Radarsat, ERS-2 SAR, and Taurus START 2treaty compliance data will be shipped back tothe U.S. for processing. If requested, MGS willuplink data through the MTRS-1 ground stationlocated on Black Island, or MTRS-2 groundstation located on Crater Hill through TDRSS(Telemetry and Data Relay Satellite System) toWhite Sands, New Mexico.

Each austral summer, project team members atMcMurdo Station are responsible for themaintenance and operation of the ground station.This season the MGS team will relocate theirequipment to the Joint Spacecraft OperationsCenter (JSOC).

In addition to relocating the equipment, upgradesmay be performed on the system to include aRAID storage device, and system automationenhancements.


Event Numbering System

All projects are identified by a unique event number. It comprisesa prefix, a 3-digit number, and a suffix. The prefix is a letter thatindicates the USAP program funding a project:

Prefix USAP Program A Aeronomy & Astrophysics B Biology & Medicine G Geology & Geophysics I Glaciology O Oceans & Climate Systems W Artists & Writers T Technical Event

The 3-digit number provides the uniqueness for eachevent number. No two projects have the samenumber.

The suffix represents the supporting station. If fieldwork takes place at more than one location the eventnumber carries more than one suffix separated by aslash.

Suffix Supporting Station M McMurdo Station P Palmer Station S South Pole Station L R/V Laurence M. Gould N RV/IB Nathaniel B. Palmer

E

Special projects supported by the USAP.Examples include investigators working withother national antarctic programs, groupsworking on islands in the peninsula.

United States AntarcticProgram

2003-2004 Projects

Website PI Last Name PI FirstName Event Number Project Title

Go Ainley David B-031-MGeographic structure of Adelie penguinpopulations: Demography of populationexpansion

Go Amsler Charles B-022-L/PThe chemical ecology of shallow-watermarine macroalgae and invertebrates onthe Antarctic Peninsula

Go Anandakrishnan Sridhar I-205-M Tidal modulation of ice stream flow

Go Bieber John A-120-M/S Spaceship Earth: Probing the solar windwith cosmic rays

Go Binns Walter A-149-M Trans-Iron Galactic Element Recorder(TIGER) / ANITA-lite

Go Bowser Samuel B-015-MRemotely operable micro-environmentalobservatory for antarctic marine biologyresearch

Go Caldwell Douglas A-103-S A search for extrasolar planets from theSouth Pole

Go Carlstrom John A-373-S Degree Angular Scale Interferometer(DASI)

Go Chereskin Teresa O-317-LShipboard acoustic Doppler currentprofiling aboard the research vesselLaurence M. Gould

Go Conway Howard I-209-M Western divide WAISCORES siteselection

Go Conway Howard I-210-M Glacial history of Ridge AB

Go DiTullio Giacomo B-272-M Iron and light effects on Phaeocystisantarctica isolates from the Ross Sea

Go Doran Peter B-426-M

McMurdo Dry Valleys Long TermEcological Research (LTER): The role ofnatural legacy on ecosystem structureand function in a polar desert

Go Ducklow Hugh B-045-L/P

Palmer Long Term Ecological ResearchProject (LTER): Climate, ecologicalmigration, and teleconnections in an ice-dominated environment

http://www.penguinscience.com/

http://www.uab.edu/uabbio/s022/

http://www.geosc.psu.edu/~sak/Tides

http://www.bartol.udel.edu/~neutronm/

http://cosray2.wustl.edu/current.html

http://www.bowserlab.org/

http://www-space.arc.nasa.gov/~vulcan/south/

http://astro.uchicago.edu/dasi

http://tryfan.ucsd.edu/

http://www.ess.washington.edu/Surface/Glaciology/


http://www.cofc.edu/~ditullio/

http://tigger.uic.edu/~pdoran/home.htm

http://www.icess.ucsb.edu/lter/lter.html

Go Ejiri Masaki A-117-S All-Sky imager at South Pole

Go Emslie Steven B-034-M Occupation history and diet of Adéliepenguins in the Ross Sea region

Go Engebretson Mark A-102-M/S

Conjugate studies of ultra-low-frequency(ULF) waves and magnetosphericdynamics using ground-based inductionmagnetometers at four high-latitudemanned sites

Go Firing Eric O-315-NShipboard acoustic Doppler currentprofiling aboard the research vesselNathaniel B. Palmer

Go Fountain Andrew B-425-M


Go Gaisser Thomas A-109-S South Pole Air Shower Experiment -SPASE 2

Go Gargett Ann B-208-NInteractive effects of UV and Verticalmixing on phytoplankton andbacterioplankton in the Ross Sea

Go Garrott Robert B-009-M Patterns and processes: Dynamics of theErebus Bay Weddell seal population

Go Gordon Arnold O-215-N ANSLOPE: Cross slope exchanges atthe antarctic slope front

Go Halzen Francis A-333-S IceCube

Go Hansen Anthony O-314-MSolar/wind powered instrumentationmodule development for polarenvironmental research

Go Harvey Ralph G-058-M The Antarctic Search for Meteorites(ANSMET)

Go Hofmann Dave O-257-S

South Pole monitoring for climaticchange: U.S. Department of CommerceNOAA Climate Monitoring and DiagnosticLaboratory

Go Hofmann David O-264-PCollection of atmospheric air for theNOAA/CMDL worldwide flask samplingnetwork

Go Holzapfel William A-378-SHigh-resolution obervations of the cosmicmicrowave background (CMB) withACBAR

Go Inan Umran A-108-S A very-low-frequency (VLF) beacontransmitter at South Pole (2001-2004)

http://www.isc.nipr.ac.jp/

http://www.uncwil.edu/tc/AntarcticaLive

http://space.augsburg.edu/ago/antindex.html

http://currents.soest.hawaii.edu/antarctic/index.html

http://huey.colorado.edu/LTER/

http://www.bartol.udel.edu/spase

http://www.serc.si.edu/uvb/Ross_Sea_index.htm

http://www.montana.edu/ecology/staff/garrott/antarctica/index.htm

http://www.ldeo.columbia.edu/physocean/anslope

http://icecube.wisc.edu/

http://www.mageesci.com/researchreports

http://www.cwru.edu/affil/ansmet

http://www.cmdl.noaa.gov/


http://cosmology.berkeley.edu/group/swlh/acbar

http://www-star.stanford.edu/~vlf/south_pole/south%20pole.htm

Go Inan Umran A-306-PGlobal thunderstorm activity and itseffects on the radiation belts and thelower ionosphere

Go Jeffrey Wade B-200-N

POTATOE: Production ObservationsThrough Another TranslatitudinalOceanic Expedition: Alaska to Antarctica;the Mother Of All Transects (MOAT)

Go Johns Bjorn G-295-M University NAVSTAR Consortium(UNAVCO) GPS survey support

Go Keeling Ralph O-204-P/SA study of atmospheric oxygen variabilityin relation to annual to decadal variationsin terrestrial and marine ecosystems

Go Kennicutt, II Mahlon B-518-M Spatial and temporal scales of humandisturbance

Go Kieber David B-266-NImpact of solar radiation and nutrients onbiogeochemical cycling of DMSP andDMS in the Ross Sea

Go Kiene Ronald B-002-NImpact of solar radiation and nutrients onbiogeochemical cycling of DMSP andDMS in the Ross Sea, Antarctica

Go Kim Stacy B-010-MCommunity dynamics in a polarecosystem: Benthic recovery fromorganic enrichment in the Antarctic

Go Kreutz Karl I-191-M Dry Valleys Late Holocene climatevariability

Go Kvitek Rikk B-320-E Victoria Land latitudinal gradient project:Benthic marine habitat characterization

Go Kyle Philip G-081-M Mount Erebus Volcano Observatory andLaboratory (MEVOL)

Go LaBelle James A-128-S A versatile electromagnetic waveformreceiver for South Pole Station

Go Lange Andrew A-033-SBackground Imaging of CosmicExtragalactic Polarization (BICEP): Anexperimental probe of inflation

Go Lyons W. Berry B-420-M


Go MacAyeal Douglas I-190-M Collaborative research of Earth's largesticebergs

Go Marsh Adam B-029-M Genomic networks for cold-adaptation inembryos of polar marine invertebrates

http://www-star.stanford.edu/~palmer/


http://www.unavco.ucar.edu/project_support/polar/polar.html

http://bluemoon.ucsd.edu/

http://www.gerg.tamu.edu/

http://www.esf.edu/chemistry/kieber/kieber.htm

http://www.southalabama.edu/marinesciences/fac_kiene.html

http://www.mlml.calstate.edu/groups/benthic/aspire2/index.htm

http://www.ume.maine.edu/iceage/

http://seafloor.csumb.edu/

http://www.ees.nmt.edu/Geop/Erebus/erebus.html

http://www.dartmouth.edu/artsci/physics/spacephy/experiment.html

http://www.astro.caltech.edu/~lgg/bicep_front.htm

http://huey.colorado.edu/

http://amrc.ssec.wisc.edu/amrc/iceberg.html

http://www.ocean.udel.edu/cms/amarsh

Go Martinson Douglas B-021-L

Palmer Long Term Ecological Research(LTER): Climate, ecological migration,and teleconnections in an ice-dominatedenvironment

Go Mayewski Paul I-153-M

A science management office for theUnited States component of theInternational Trans Antarctic ScientificExpedition (ITASE) -- South Pole toNorthern Victoria Land

Go McKnight Diane B-421-M


Go Mitchell B. Greg B-228-LPlankton community structure and irondistribution in the southern DrakePassage

Go Morse Robert A-130-S Antarctic Muon And Neutrino DetectorArray (AMANDA)

Go Müller Dietrich A-125-MTracer-Lite II: Transition Radiation Arrayfor Cosmic Energetic Radiation, a balloonborne instrument

Go Neale Patrick B-203-NInteractive effects of UV radiation andvertical mixing on phytoplankton andbacterioplankton in the Ross Sea

Go Novak Giles A-376-S Mapping galactic magnetic fields withSPARO

Go Priscu John B-195-MMicrobial diversity and function in thepermanently ice-covered lakes of theMcMurdo Dry Valleys

Go Priscu John B-422-M


Go Quetin Langdon B-028-L/P


Go Retallack Gregory G-299-M Permian-Triassic mass extinction inAntarctica

Go Rosenberg Theodore A-111-M/S Riometry in Antarctica and conjugateregion

Go Rosenberg Theodore A-112-MPolar Experiment Network forGeophysical Upper-AtmosphericInvestigations (PENGUIN)

http://iceflo.icess.ucsb.edu:8080/ice_hp.php

http://www.ume.maine.edu/USITASE/


http://www.spg.ucsd.edu/

http://amanda.uci.edu/

http://tracer.uchicago.edu/


http://lennon.astro.northwestern.edu/

http://www.homepage.montana.edu/~lkbonney/

http://www.homepage.montana.edu/~lkbonney

http://www.icess.ucsb.edu/lter

http://darkwing.uoregon.edu/%7Edogsci/retall/rsch.html

http://www.polar.umd.edu/

http://www.polar.umd.edu/ago.html

Go Scambos Theodore I-186-MCharacteristics of snow megadunes andtheir potential effects on ice coreinterpretation

Go Severinghaus Jeffrey I-184-MHow thick is the convective zone?: Astudy of firn air in the megadunes nearVostok

Go Sivjee Gulamabas A-129-S

Effects of enhanced solar disturbancesduring the 2000-2002 solar-max periodon the antarctic mesosphere-lower-thermosphere (MLT) and F regionscomposition, thermodynamics anddynamics

Go Smith David A-144-E/MDevelopment and test flight of a small,automated balloon payload forobservations of terrestrial x-rays

Go Smith Raymond B-032-L/P


Go Smith Walker B-047-MInterannual variability in the Antarctic-Ross Sea (IVARS): Nutrients andseasonal production

Go Sowers Todd I-177-MRefining a 500-thousand-year climaterecord from the Mt. Moulton blue ice fieldin West Antarctica

Go Sprintall Janet O-260-L The Drake Passage high densityXBT/XCTD program

Go Stacey Gordon A-377-SWide-field imaging spectroscopy in thesubmillimeter: Deploying SPIFI onAST/RO

Go Stark Antony A-371-S Antarctic Submillimeter Telescope andRemote Observatory (AST/RO)

Go Stearns Charles O-202-M/P/S Antarctic Meteorological ResearchCenter (AMRC) (2002-2005)

Go Stearns Charles O-283-M/P/S Antarctic Automatic Weather StationProgram (AWS): 2001-2004

Go Steffen Konrad O-309-LAMSR sea ice validation during the R/VLaurence M. Gould's traverse toAntarctica

Go Stepp William A-145-M Long Duration Balloon Program (LDB)

Go Stock Joann G-071-N Improved Cenozoic plate reconstructionsof the circum-Antarctic Region

http://nsidc.org/antarctica/megadunes

http://icebubbles.ucsd.edu/

http://www.sprl.db.erau.edu/

http://www.geophys.washington.edu/Space/SpaceExp/Balloon/Antarctica99/

http://pal.lternet.edu/

http://www.vims.edu/bio/ivars/

http://www.geosc.psu.edu/~sowers/index.html

http://www-hrx.ucsd.edu/ax22.html

http://www.astro.cornell.edu/SPIFI/new/spifi.html

http://cfa-www.harvard.edu/~adair/AST_RO

http://amrc.ssec.wisc.edu/


http://cires.colorado.edu/

http://www.nsbf.nasa.gov/index.html

http://www.gps.caltech.edu/~jstock/Palmerres.html

Go Vernet Maria B-016-L/P


Go Virginia Ross B-423-M


Go Wall Diana B-424-M


Go Wiens Douglas G-089-MA broadband seismic experiment toinvestigate deep continental structureacross the east-west Antarctic boundary

Go Wilson Terry G-079-M

Transantarctic Mountains deformationnetwork: GPS measurements ofneotectonic motion in the antarcticinterior

Go Zhou Meng B-248-LPlankton community structure and irondistribution in the southern DrakePassage



http://www.nrel.colostate.edu/projects/soil/

http://levee.wustl.edu/seismology/TAMSEIS

http://www.geology.ohio-state.edu/TAMDEF

http://www.es.umb.edu/mz/sfz/sfz.htm

2003-2004 USAP Field SeasonEnvironmental and Health & Safety Initiatives

NSFContact:

Environmental OfficerNational Science Foundation4201 Wilson BoulevardArlington, VA 22230

The Antarctic Conservation Act (ACA) was made U.S. law in 1978 and was amended by the AntarcticScience, Tourism, and Conservation Act of 1996. The ACA is intended to conserve and protect the nativemammals, birds, and plants of Antarctica and the ecosystem. It is broadly applied to U.S. citizens andother participants in U.S. government activities south of 60 degrees south latitude. It regulates ordinaryon-ice activities and provides a permit system that allows while carefully restricting certain otherwiseprohibited activities for worthwhile purposes. It empowers enforcement officers and prescribes seriouspenalties for violations.

In 1991, the United States along with the other treaty nations adopted the Protocol on EnvironmentalProtection and its five annexes that outline a comprehensive protection system for the antarcticenvironment. Together, the ACA and the Protocol formalizes America's commitment to protect theenvironment of the southernmost continent and its dependent and associated ecosystems. Together, theUnited States and other treaty nations are committed to preserving the region as a natural reservedevoted to peace and science.

Specific provisions for environmental protection include regulating the introduction of nonindigenousspecies, prohibiting casual interference with flora and fauna, and managing pollutants. Particularlysensitive regions have been designated ASPAs (Antarctic Specially Protected Areas) and permits arerequired to enter them. Each five years, NSF's support contractor must apply for and be issued a MasterPermit which establishes requirements for managing pollutants and wastes including removal andrecycling or proper disposal in the United States of most wastes and excess materials generated by theprogram.

Recognizing that worthwhile scientific research and related logistic support can have effects on theAntarctic environment, the Antarctic Treaty Consultative Parties adopted recommendations onenvironmental monitoring in Antarctica with two important goals: To detect any unforeseen effects, and toverify the actual impact and scope of those effects that were anticipated. The Protocol on EnvironmentalProtection to the Antarctic Treaty also requires that environmental impacts be monitored. The U.S.Antarctic Program (USAP) is developing an Environmental Monitoring Program designed to detect andmeasure any impacts from science and operations at its research stations in Antarctica. Only with asustained and coherent monitoring program can a reliable basis for sound environmental managementdecisions and possible improvements be established. Data obtained from the monitoring program will beused to document baseline conditions, verify operational impact, and monitor activities undertaken torecover from accidental impacts to the environment.

Environmental, Health and Safety (EHS) initiatives for the United States Antarctic Program wereestablished in 1987 by a safety review panel appointed by the director of the NSF. The goals of theinitiatives are to clean up debris from past activities, improve the health and safety of all USAPparticipants, and minimize the environmental impact of on-ice activities. The initiatives are consistent withUS environmental protection regulations (45CFR670-672).

Historically, the USAP has recycled 60-70 percent of all the waste generated on stations. The remainderis incinerated, treated, or removed to landfills in the United States. Last season, 1.9 million kilograms ofrecyclables, waste, and equipment were removed from USAP stations and field camps. The preferredwaste management strategy is pollution prevention and the EHS initiatives waste minimization programhas reduced waste by about 9 percent annually since 1994.

The initiatives also include an environmental impact assessment program. All on-ice activities, researchor otherwise, which are expected to have a minor or transitory environmental impact are documented tohelp identify alternatives and mitigate potential impacts. This program is designed to ensure thatenvironmental considerations are taken into account in the planning of all activities with the aim ofpreventing adverse impacts. Each season, audits are conducted to ensure that research activities complywith environmental impact assessment requirements.

A comprehensive plan to educate science parties about the Antarctic Conservation Act (ACA) and otherenvironmental practices has been developed to support the USAP. Waste management education andtraining is provided at each major station and for personnel deploying to the field. Specializedenvironmental information and training is provided for the wide variety of environments and situationsencountered within the USAP, both before and during the field season. For example, all participantsentering the McMurdo Dry Valleys are trained to work in an area with its unique environmentalsensitivities.

Antarctica's remote location and extreme environment, combined with limited medical services, makesafety a top priority for all people working within the USAP. The USAP integrates health and safetyrequirements and awareness into every activity at every site. A comprehensive field safety trainingprogram has been implemented to ensure participants know what to expect, and how to survive in avariety of field situations. On station, RPSC invites all USAP participants to take part in specific safetytraining, safety evaluations and work place inspections to become more proactive in safety as opposed toreactive. With the addition of new safety multi-media and presentations at each of the stations, USAPparticipants can check out videos and safety information to round out their knowledge or to learn newtechniques in preventing personal injuries. USAP participants are ultimately responsible for theirbehaviors and contributions to the Safety and Health Program. RPSC Safety and Health Professionals &Management are a dedicated safety resource to the USAP who can and should be used by all programparticipants.


Principal Investigators

PI Last Name PI FirstName

NSF/OPPAward # Project Title Event #

Ainley David 01-25608 Geographic structure of Adelie penguin populations: Demographyof population expansion B-031-M

Amsler Charles 01-25181 The chemical ecology of shallow-water marine macroalgae andinvertebrates on the Antarctic Peninsula

B-022-L/P

Anandakrishnan Sridhar 02-29629 Tidal modulation of ice stream flow I-205-M

Armstrong Jennifer . Ice Through the Ages: A nonfiction young adult book W-219-M/S

Ashworth Allan 02-30696Terrestrial paleoecology and sedimentary environment of theMeyer Desert Formation, Beardmore Glacier, TransantarcticMountains

G-294-M

Avery Susan ATM 00-00957

Dynamics of the antarctic mesosphere-lower-thermosphere (MLT)region using ground-based radar and TIMED instrumentation A-284-S

Babcock Loren 02-29757Paleobiology and taphonomy of exceptionally preserved fossilsfrom Jurassic Lacustrine deposits, Beardmore Glacier area andsouthern Victoria Land, Antarctica

G-297-M

Baskin Yvonne . Soil biodiversity book W-220-M

Bieber John 00-00315 Spaceship Earth: Probing the solar wind with cosmic rays A-120-M/S

Binns Walter NSF/NASAagreement Trans-Iron Galactic Element Recorder (TIGER) / ANITA-lite A-149-M

Blake Daniel 99-08856 Global climate change and the evolutionary ecology of antarcticmollusks in the Late Eocene G-065-E

Blanchette Robert 02-29570 Investigations on deterioration in the historic huts of Antarctica B-038-E/M

Bledsoe Lucy . Palmer Station children's novel W-218-P

Bowser Samuel 02-16043 Remotely operable micro-environmental observatory for antarcticmarine biology research B-015-M

Butler Rhett EAR 00-04370 IRIS - Global Seismograph Station at South Pole G-090-

P/S

Caldwell Douglas 01-26313 A search for extrasolar planets from the South Pole A-103-S

Carlstrom John 00-94541 Degree Angular Scale Interferometer (DASI) A-373-S

Carlstrom John 01-30612 South Pole observations to test cosmological models A-379-S

Case Judd 00-03844 Evolution and biogeography of Late Cretaceous vertebrates fromthe James Ross Basin, Antarctic Peninsula G-061-E

Chereskin Teresa 98-16226 Shipboard acoustic Doppler current profiling aboard the researchvessel Laurence M. Gould O-317-L

W-223-

Cokinos Christopher . The fallen sky: Eccentrics and scientists in pursuit of shooting stars M

Connell Laurie 01-25611 Yeasts in the antarctic Dry Valleys: Biological role, distribution, andevolution B-019-M

Conrad Lawrence(Larry) . Field guide to antarctic features: McMurdo Sound region W-224-

M

Conway Howard 00-87345 Western divide WAISCORES site selection I-209-M

Conway Howard 00-87144 Glacial history of Ridge AB I-210-M

Cuffey Kurt 01-25579 Dynamics and climatic response of the Taylor Glacier system. I-161-M

Dalziel Ian 00-03619 A GPS network to determine crustal motions in the bedrock of theWest Antarctic Ice Sheet (WAIS)

G-087-M

Day Thomas 02-30579 Response of terrestrial ecosystems along the Antarctic Peninsulato a changing climate B-003-P

DeVries Arthur 02-31006Antifreeze proteins in antarctic fishes: Integrated studies of freezingenvironments and organismal freezing avoidance, proteinstructure-function and mechanism, genes, and evolution

B-005-M

Deshler Terry 02-30424Measurements addressing quantitative ozone loss, polarstratospheric cloud nucleation, and large polar stratosphericparticles during austral winter and spring

A-131-M

Detrich William 01-32032 ICEFISH 2003: International collaborative expedition to collect andstudy fish indigenous to sub-antarctic habitats B-039-N

DiTullio Giacomo 02-30513 Iron and light effects on Phaeocystis antarctica isolates from theRoss Sea B-272-M

Doran Peter 98-10219McMurdo Dry Valleys Long Term Ecological Research (LTER): Therole of natural legacy on ecosystem structure and function in apolar desert

B-426-M

Ducklow Hugh 02-17282Palmer Long Term Ecological Research Project (LTER): Climate,ecological migration, and teleconnections in an ice-dominatedenvironment

B-045-L/P

Dye Timothy 01-25893 Culture and health in Antarctica B-027-M

Eicken Hajo 01-26007 Measurements and improved parameterizations of the thermalconductivity and heat flow through first-year sea ice

O-253-M

Eisele Fred 02-30246 Antarctic Troposphere Chemistry Investigation (ANTCI) O-176-M/S

Ejiri Masaki U.S./Japanagreement All-Sky imager at South Pole A-117-S

Emslie Steven 01-25098 Occupation history and diet of Adélie penguins in the Ross Searegion B-034-M

Engebretson Mark 02-33169Conjugate studies of ultra-low-frequency (ULF) waves andmagnetospheric dynamics using ground-based inductionmagnetometers at four high-latitude manned sites

A-102-M/S

Firing Eric 98-16226 Shipboard acoustic Doppler current profiling aboard the researchvessel Nathaniel B. Palmer O-315-N

Fountain Andrew 98-10219McMurdo Dry Valleys Long Term Ecological Research (LTER): Therole of natural legacy on ecosystem structure and function in apolar desert

B-425-M

Fraser William 02-17282Palmer Long Term Ecological Research (LTER): Climate,ecological migration, and teleconnections in an ice-dominatedenvironment

B-013-L/P

Monitoring the human impact and environmental variability on

Fraser William 01-30525 Adelie Penguins at Palmer Station B-198-P

Fraser-Smith Antony 01-38126 The Operation of an ELF/VLF Radiometer at Arrival Heights,Antarctica A-100-M

Frazer Thomas 03-36469SGER

Complex pelagic interactions in the Southern Ocean: Decipheringthe antarctic paradox B-212-E

Gaisser Thomas 99-80801 South Pole Air Shower Experiment - SPASE 2 A-109-S

Gargett Ann 01-25818 Interactive effects of UV and Vertical mixing on phytoplankton andbacterioplankton in the Ross Sea B-208-N

Garrott Robert 02-25110 Patterns and processes: Dynamics of the Erebus Bay Weddell sealpopulation B-009-M

Gast Rebecca 01-25833 Comparative and quantitative studies of protistan molecularecology and physiology in coastal antarctic waters B-207-N

Goes Joaquim 01-26150Ultraviolet-radiation-induced changes in the patterns of productionand composition of biochemical compounds antarctic marinephytoplankton

B-206-N

Goodge John 02-30280 Geophysical mapping of the east antarctic shield adjacent to theTransantarctic Mountains

G-291-M

Gordon Arnold 01-25172 ANSLOPE: Cross slope exchanges at the antarctic slope front O-215-N

Grew Edward 02-28842 Boron in antarctic granulite-facies rocks: Under what conditions isboron retained in the middle crust? G-067-E

Hall Brenda 01-24014Millennial-scale fluctuations of Dry Valleys lakes: A test ofImplications for regional climate variability and the interhemispheric(a)synchrony of climate change

I-196-M

Halzen Francis 02-36449,03-31873 IceCube A-333-S

Hamilton Gordon 02-29245 Glaciology of blue ice areas in Antarctica I-178-M

Hammer William 02-29698 Vertebrate Paleontology of the Triassic to Jurassic sedimentarysequence in the Beardmore Glacier area of Antarctica

G-298-M

Hansen Anthony DBI 01-19793

Solar/wind powered instrumentation module development for polarenvironmental research

O-314-M

Harvey Ralph 99-80452 The Antarctic Search for Meteorites (ANSMET) G-058-M

Hernandez Gonzalo 02-29251 Austral high-latitude atmospheric dynamics A-110-M/S

Hildebrand John 99-10007 Mysticete whale acoustic census in the GLOBEC west antarcticproject area B-239-L

Hofmann Dave NOAA/NSFagreement

South Pole monitoring for climatic change: U.S. Department ofCommerce NOAA Climate Monitoring and Diagnostic Laboratory O-257-S

Hofmann David NOAA/NSFagreement

Collection of atmospheric air for the NOAA/CMDL worldwide flasksampling network O-264-P

Holzapfel William 02-32009 High-resolution obervations of the cosmic microwave background(CMB) with ACBAR A-378-S

Hunt George 02–34570SGER

Food web structure across a large-scale ocean productivitygradient: Top predator assemblages in the southern Indian Ocean B-025-E

Inan Umran 00-93381 A very-low-frequency (VLF) beacon transmitter at South Pole(2001-2004) A-108-S

Inan Umran 02-33955 Global thunderstorm activity and its effects on the radiation beltsand the lower ionosphere A-306-P

Jeffrey Wade 01-27022POTATOE: Production Observations Through AnotherTranslatitudinal Oceanic Expedition: Alaska to Antarctica; theMother Of All Transects (MOAT)

B-200-N

Johns Bjorn EAR 99-03413 University NAVSTAR Consortium (UNAVCO) GPS survey support G-295-

M

Keeling Ralph ATM 00-00923

A study of atmospheric oxygen variability in relation to annual todecadal variations in terrestrial and marine ecosystems

O-204-P/S

Kemerait Robert NSF/OPP-DoD MOA Dry Valley seismic project G-078-

M

Kennicutt, II Mahlon SGER Spatial and temporal scales of human disturbance B-518-M

Kieber David 02-30499 Impact of solar radiation and nutrients on biogeochemical cycling ofDMSP and DMS in the Ross Sea B-266-N

Kiene Ronald 02-30497 Impact of solar radiation and nutrients on biogeochemical cycling ofDMSP and DMS in the Ross Sea, Antarctica B-002-N

Kim Stacy 01-26319 Community dynamics in a polar ecosystem: Benthic recovery fromorganic enrichment in the Antarctic B-010-M

Kreutz Karl 02-28052 Dry Valleys Late Holocene climate variability I-191-M

Kvitek Rikk 02-29991 Victoria Land latitudinal gradient project: Benthic marine habitatcharacterization B-320-E

Kyle Philip 02-29305 Mount Erebus Volcano Observatory and Laboratory (MEVOL) G-081-M

LaBelle James 00-90545 A versatile electromagnetic waveform receiver for South PoleStation A-128-S

Lange Andrew 02-30438 Background Imaging of Cosmic Extragalactic Polarization (BICEP):An experimental probe of inflation A-033-S

Larson Edward . History of science in Antarctica W-221-M

Lessard Marc 01-32576 Measurement and analysis of extremely-low-frequency (ELF)waves at South Pole Station A-136-S

Luyendyk Bruce 00-88143 Antarctic cretaceous-Cenozoic climate, glaciation, and tectonics:Site surveys for drilling from the edge of the Ross Ice Shelf G-152-N

Lyons W. Berry 02-29836 Soil biodiversity and response to climate change: A regionalcomparison of Cape Hallett and Taylor Valley B-259-M

Lyons W. Berry 98-10219McMurdo Dry Valleys Long Term Ecological Research (LTER): Therole of natural legacy on ecosystem structure and function in apolar desert

B-420-M

MacAyeal Douglas 02-29546 Collaborative research of Earth's largest icebergs I-190-M

Marsh Adam 02-38281 Genomic networks for cold-adaptation in embryos of polar marineinvertebrates B-029-M

Martinson Douglas 02-17282Palmer Long Term Ecological Research (LTER): Climate,ecological migration, and teleconnections in an ice-dominatedenvironment

B-021-L

Mayewski Paul 02-29573A science management office for the United States component ofthe International Trans Antarctic Scientific Expedition (ITASE) --South Pole to Northern Victoria Land

I-153-M

McKnight Diane 98-10219McMurdo Dry Valleys Long Term Ecological Research (LTER): Therole of natural legacy on ecosystem structure and function in apolar desert

B-421-M

Measures Christopher 02–30445 Plankton community structure and iron distribution in the southern B-225-L

Drake Passage

Mende Stephen 02-30428 Dayside auroral imaging at South Pole A-104-S

Miller Molly 01-26146 Late Paleozoic-Mesozoic fauna, environment, climate, and basinalhistory: Beardmore Glacier area, Tranantarctic Mountains

G-094-M

Mitchell B. Greg 02-30445 Plankton community structure and iron distribution in the southernDrake Passage B-228-L

Morse Robert 99-80474 Antarctic Muon And Neutrino Detector Array (AMANDA) A-130-S

Mullins Jerry 02-33246 Geodesy and geospatial program G-052-M/P/S

Murcray Frank 02-30370 Infrared measurements of atmospheric composition over Antarctica A-255-M/S

Müller Dietrich NSF/NASAagreement

Tracer-Lite II: Transition Radiation Array for Cosmic EnergeticRadiation, a balloon borne instrument A-125-M

Naveen Ron 02-30069 Long-term data collection at select Antarctic Peninsula visitor sites B-086-E

Neale Patrick 01-27037 Interactive effects of UV radiation and vertical mixing onphytoplankton and bacterioplankton in the Ross Sea B-203-N

Nevitt Gabrielle 02-29775 The development of olfactory foraging strategies in antarcticprocellariiform seabirds B-035-E

Novak Giles 01-30389 Mapping galactic magnetic fields with SPARO A-376-S

Palinkas Lawrence 00-90343 Prevention of environment-induced decrements in mood andcognitive performance

B-321-M/S

Petzel David 02-29462 Drinking and sodium/potasium-ATPase alpha-subunit isoformexpression in antarctic fish B-012-M

Ponganis Paul 02-29638 Diving physiology and behavior of emperor penguins B-197-M

Priscu John MCB 02-37335

Microbial diversity and function in the permanently ice-coveredlakes of the McMurdo Dry Valleys B-195-M

Priscu John 98-10219McMurdo Dry Valleys Long Term Ecological Research (LTER): Therole of natural legacy on ecosystem structure and function in apolar desert

B-422-M

Quetin Langdon 02-17282Palmer Long Term Ecological Research (LTER): Climate,ecological migration, and teleconnections in an ice-dominatedenvironment

B-028-L/P

Renne Paul 01-25194 Calibration of cosmogenic argon production rates in Antarctica G-064-M

Retallack Gregory 02-30086 Permian-Triassic mass extinction in Antarctica G-299-M

Rosenberg Theodore 00-03881 Riometry in Antarctica and conjugate region A-111-M/S

Rosenberg Theodore 03-34467 Polar Experiment Network for Geophysical Upper-AtmosphericInvestigations (PENGUIN) A-112-M

Sanderson Colin MOU withDOE

Remote Atmospheric Measurements Program (RAMP) of theUniversity of Miami / U.S. Department of Energy's EnvironmentalMeasurements Lab

O-275-P/S

Scambos Theodore 01-25570 Characteristics of snow megadunes and their potential effects onice core interpretation I-186-M

Severinghaus Jeffrey 02-30452 How thick is the convective zone?: A study of firn air in themegadunes near Vostok I-184-M

Effects of enhanced solar disturbances during the 2000-2002 solar-

Sivjee Gulamabas 99-09339 max period on the antarctic mesosphere-lower-thermosphere(MLT) and F regions composition, thermodynamics and dynamics

A-129-S

Smith David ATM 02-33370

Development and test flight of a small, automated balloon payloadfor observations of terrestrial x-rays

A-144-E/M

Smith Raymond 02-17282Palmer Long Term Ecological Research (LTER): Climate,ecological migration, and teleconnections in an ice-dominatedenvironment

B-032-L/P

Smith Walker 00-87401 Interannual variability in the Antarctic-Ross Sea (IVARS): Nutrientsand seasonal production B-047-M

Sowers Todd 02-30021 Refining a 500-thousand-year climate record from the Mt. Moultonblue ice field in West Antarctica I-177-M

Sprintall Janet 00-03618 The Drake Passage high density XBT/XCTD program O-260-L

Stacey Gordon 00-94605 Wide-field imaging spectroscopy in the submillimeter: DeployingSPIFI on AST/RO A-377-S

Stark Antony 01-26090 Antarctic Submillimeter Telescope and Remote Observatory(AST/RO) A-371-S

Stearns Charles 01-26262 Antarctic Meteorological Research Center (AMRC) (2002-2005) O-202-M/P/S

Stearns Charles 00-88058 Antarctic Automatic Weather Station Program (AWS): 2001-2004 O-283-M/P/S

Steffen Konrad NASAaward

AMSR sea ice validation during the R/V Laurence M. Gould'straverse to Antarctica O-309-L

Stepp William NSF/NASAagreement Long Duration Balloon Program (LDB) A-145-M

Stock Joann 01-26334 Improved Cenozoic plate reconstructions of the circum-AntarcticRegion G-071-N

Stone John 02-29314 Late Quaternary history of Reedy Glacier I-175-M/S

Takahashi Taro 00-03609 Mesoscale, seasonal and inter-annual variability of surface waterCO2 in the Drake Passage O-214-L

Tauxe Lisa 02-29403 Geomagnetic field as recorded in the Mount Erebus VolcanicProvince: Key to field structure at high southern latitudes

G-182-M

Taylor Edith 01-26230 Permian and Triassic floras from the Beardmore Glacier region:Icehouse to greenhouse?

G-095-M

Taylor Edith 02-29877 Shackleton Glacier area: Evolution of vegetation during the Triassic G-293-M

Thiemens Mark 01-25761 South Pole Atmospheric Nitrate Isotopic Analysis (SPANIA) I-165-M/S

Trivelpiece Wayne 01-25985 Foraging behavior and demography of Pygoscelis penguins B-040-E

Uhle Maria 02-30237 Biogeochemistry of Victoria Land coastal ponds: Role in terrestrialecosystem organic carbon dynamics and structure B-011-M

Veit Richard 99-83751 Dynamics of predator-prey behavior in the Antarctic Ocean B-023-L

Vernet Maria 02-17282Palmer Long Term Ecological Research (LTER): Climate,ecological migration, and teleconnections in an ice-dominatedenvironment

B-016-L/P

Virginia Ross 98-10219McMurdo Dry Valleys Long Term Ecological Research (LTER): Therole of natural legacy on ecosystem structure and function in apolar desert

B-423-M

NASA Validation of the Atmospheric Infrared Sounder (AIRS) over the O-213-

Walden Von award Antarctic Plateau M

Wall Diana 98-10219McMurdo Dry Valleys Long Term Ecological Research (LTER): Therole of natural legacy on ecosystem structure and function in apolar desert

B-424-M

Warren Stephen 00-03826 Solar radiation processes on the East Antarctic Plateau O-201-M

Wiens Douglas 99-09603 A broadband seismic experiment to investigate deep continentalstructure across the east-west Antarctic boundary

G-089-M

Wilson Terry 02-30285 Transantarctic Mountains deformation network: GPSmeasurements of neotectonic motion in the antarctic interior

G-079-M

Wilson Terry 01-25624 Neotectonic structure of Terror Rift, Western Ross Sea G-099-N

Yen Jeannette 03-24539 Dynamic similarity or size proportionality?: Adaptations of a polarcopepod

B-285-E/L

Zhou Meng 02-29966 Plankton community structure and iron distribution in the southernDrake Passage B-248-L


USAP Programs in Antarctica

Aeronomy &Astrophysics

Dr. VladimirPapitashvili

Program Manager

Biology & Medicine Dr. Polly PenhaleProgram Manager

Geology &

GeophysicsDr. Rama K. Kotra

Program Manager

Glaciology Dr. Julie PalaisProgram Manager

Oceans & Climate Dr. Bernhard LettauProgram Manager

Artists & Writers Mr. Guy GuthridgeProgram Manager

Click on a link to view a list of projects for each USAPprogram.


Principal Investigators' Home Institutions

Institution PI Last Name PI FirstName

NSF/OPPAward # Event #

Alabama Birmingham, University of Amsler Charles 01-25181 B-022-L/P

Alaska Fairbanks, University of Eicken Hajo 01-26007 O-253-M

Arizona State University Tempe Day Thomas 02-30579 B-003-P

Augsburg College Engebretson Mark 02-33169 A-102-M/S

Augustana College Hammer William 02-29698 G-298-M

Berkeley Geochronology Center Renne Paul 01-25194 G-064-M

Bigelow Marine Laboratory Goes Joaquim 01-26150 B-206-N

California Berkeley, University of Cuffey Kurt 01-25579 I-161-M

California Berkeley, University of Holzapfel William 02-32009 A-378-S

California Berkeley, University of Mende Stephen 02-30428 A-104-S

California Davis, University of Nevitt Gabrielle 02-29775 B-035-E

California Institute of Technology Lange Andrew 02-30438 A-033-S

California Institute of Technology Stock Joann 01-26334 G-071-N

California Irvine, University of Hunt George 02–34570SGER B-025-E

California San Diego, University of Chereskin Teresa 98-16226 O-317-L

California San Diego, University of Keeling Ralph ATM 00-00923

O-204-P/S

California San Diego, University of Palinkas Lawrence 00-90343 B-321-M/S

California San Diego, University of Sprintall Janet 00-03618 O-260-L

California San Diego, University of Thiemens Mark 01-25761 I-165-M/S

California Santa Barbara, University of Quetin Langdon 02-17282 B-028-L/P

California Santa Barbara, University of Smith Raymond 02-17282 B-032-L/P

California State University Monterey Bay Kvitek Rikk 02-29991 B-320-E

Case Western Reserve University Harvey Ralph 99-80452 G-058-M

Charleston, University of DiTullio Giacomo 02-30513 B-272-M

Chicago, University of Carlstrom John 00-94541 A-373-S

Chicago, University of Carlstrom John 01-30612 A-379-S

Chicago, University of MacAyeal Douglas 02-29546 I-190-M

Chicago, University of Müller Dietrich NSF/NASAagreement A-125-M

City University of New York/College of Staten Isl. Veit Richard 99-83751 B-023-L

Climate Change Institute Mayewski Paul 02-29573 I-153-M

Colorado Boulder, University of Avery Susan ATM 00-00957 A-284-S

Colorado Boulder, University of McKnight Diane 98-10219 B-421-M

Colorado Boulder, University of Scambos Theodore 01-25570 I-186-M

Colorado Boulder, University of Steffen Konrad NASAaward O-309-L

Colorado State University Wall Diana 98-10219 B-424-M

Columbia University Gordon Arnold 01-25172 O-215-N

Columbia University Martinson Douglas 02-17282 B-021-L

Columbia University Takahashi Taro 00-03609 O-214-L

Cornell University Stacey Gordon 00-94605 A-377-S

Creighton University Petzel David 02-29462 B-012-M

Dartmouth College LaBelle James 00-90545 A-128-S

Dartmouth College Lessard Marc 01-32576 A-136-S

Dartmouth College Virginia Ross 98-10219 B-423-M

Delaware, University of Bieber John 00-00315 A-120-M/S

Delaware, University of Gaisser Thomas 99-80801 A-109-S

Delaware, University of Marsh Adam 02-38281 B-029-M

Denver, University of Murcray Frank 02-30370 A-255-M/S

Embry Riddle Aeronautical University Sivjee Gulamabas 99-09339 A-129-S

Florida, University of Frazer Thomas 03-36469SGER B-212-E

Georgia Institute of Technology Eisele Fred 02-30246 O-176-M/S

Georgia Institute of Technology Yen Jeannette 03-24539 B-285-E/L

Georgia, University of Larson Edward . W-221-M

H.T. Harvey & Associates Ainley David 01-25608 B-031-M

Hawaii Manoa, University of Firing Eric 98-16226 O-315-N

Hawaii Manoa, University of Measures Christopher 02–30445 B-225-L

Hawaii Manoa, University of Mitchell B. Greg 02-30445 B-228-L

Idaho, University of Walden Von NASAaward

O-213-M

Illinois Chicago, University of Doran Peter 98-10219 B-426-M

Illinois Urbana, University of Blake Daniel 99-08856 G-065-E

Illinois Urbana, University of DeVries Arthur 02-31006 B-005-M

Incorporated Research Institutions for Seismology Butler Rhett EAR 00-04370

G-090-P/S

Kansas Lawrence, University of Taylor Edith 01-26230 G-095-M

Kansas Lawrence, University of Taylor Edith 02-29877 G-293-M

Magee Scientific Company Hansen Anthony DBI 01-19793

O-314-M

Maine, The University of Connell Laurie 01-25611 B-019-M

Maine, The University of Grew Edward 02-28842 G-067-E

Maine, The University of Hall Brenda 01-24014 I-196-M

Maine, The University of Hamilton Gordon 02-29245 I-178-M

Maine, The University of Kreutz Karl 02-28052 I-191-M

Maryland, University of Rosenberg Theodore 00-03881 A-111-M/S

Maryland, University of Rosenberg Theodore 03-34467 A-112-M

Massachusetts, University of Zhou Meng 02-29966 B-248-L

Minnesota, University of Blanchette Robert 02-29570 B-038-E/M

Minnesota, University of Goodge John 02-30280 G-291-M

Montana State University Bozeman Garrott Robert 02-25110 B-009-M

Montana State University Bozeman Priscu John MCB 02-37335 B-195-M

Montana State University Bozeman Priscu John 98-10219 B-422-M

National Institute of Polar Research Ejiri Masaki U.S./Japanagreement A-117-S

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Hofmann Dave NOAA/NSFagreement O-257-S

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Hofmann David NOAA/NSFagreement O-264-P

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, SouthwestFisheries Trivelpiece Wayne 01-25985 B-040-E

National Scientific Balloon Facility (NSBF) Stepp William NSF/NASAagreement A-145-M

New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology Kyle Philip 02-29305 G-081-M

New York State Department of Health Bowser Samuel 02-16043 B-015-M

North Dakota State University Ashworth Allan 02-30696 G-294-M

Northeastern University Detrich William 01-32032 B-039-N

Northern Carolina, Wilmington, University of Emslie Steven 01-25098 B-034-M

Northwestern University Novak Giles 01-30389 A-376-S

Oceanites, Inc. Naveen Ron 02-30069 B-086-E

Ohio State University Babcock Loren 02-29757 G-297-M

Ohio State University Lyons W. Berry 02-29836 B-259-M

Ohio State University Lyons W. Berry 98-10219 B-420-M

Ohio State University Wilson Terry 02-30285 G-079-M

Ohio State University Wilson Terry 01-25624 G-099-N

Old Dominion University Gargett Ann 01-25818 B-208-N

Oregon, University of Retallack Gregory 02-30086 G-299-M

Pennsylvania State University Anandakrishnan Sridhar 02-29629 I-205-M

Pennsylvania State University Sowers Todd 02-30021 I-177-M

Polar Oceans Group Fraser William 02-17282 B-013-L/P

Polar Oceans Group Fraser William 01-30525 B-198-P

Portland State University Fountain Andrew 98-10219 B-425-M

Rhode Island, University of Severinghaus Jeffrey 02-30452 I-184-M

Rochester, University of Dye Timothy 01-25893 B-027-M

SETI Institute (Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence) Caldwell Douglas 01-26313 A-103-S

Saint Mary's College of California Case Judd 00-03844 G-061-E

San Jose State University Kim Stacy 01-26319 B-010-M

Santa Barbara, University California Luyendyk Bruce 00-88143 G-152-N

Santa Cruz Institute for Particle Physics Smith David ATM 02-33370

A-144-E/M

Scripps Institution of Oceanography Hildebrand John 99-10007 B-239-L

Scripps Institution of Oceanography Ponganis Paul 02-29638 B-197-M

Scripps Institution of Oceanography Tauxe Lisa 02-29403 G-182-M

Scripps Institution of Oceanography Vernet Maria 02-17282 B-016-L/P

Smithsonian Institution Neale Patrick 01-27037 B-203-N

Smithsonian Institution Stark Antony 01-26090 A-371-S

South Alabama, University of Kiene Ronald 02-30497 B-002-N

Stanford University Fraser-Smith Antony 01-38126 A-100-M

Stanford University Inan Umran 00-93381 A-108-S

Stanford University Inan Umran 02-33955 A-306-P

State University of New York Syracuse Kieber David 02-30499 B-266-N

Tennessee, University of Uhle Maria 02-30237 B-011-M

Texas A & M University Kennicutt, II Mahlon SGER B-518-M

Texas Austin, University of Dalziel Ian 00-03619 G-087-M

EAR 99- G-295-

UNAVCO/UCAR Johns Bjorn 03413 M

United States Air Force Kemerait Robert NSF/OPP-DoD MOA

G-078-M

United States Department of Energy Sanderson Colin MOU withDOE

O-275-P/S

United States Geological Survey Mullins Jerry 02-33246 G-052-M/P/S

Utah State University Cokinos Christopher . W-223-M

Vanderbilt University Miller Molly 01-26146 G-094-M

Virginia Institute of Marine Sciences Ducklow Hugh 02-17282 B-045-L/P

Virginia Institute of Marine Sciences Smith Walker 00-87401 B-047-M

Washington University Binns Walter NSF/NASAagreement A-149-M

Washington University Wiens Douglas 99-09603 G-089-M

Washington, University of Conway Howard 00-87345 I-209-M

Washington, University of Conway Howard 00-87144 I-210-M

Washington, University of Hernandez Gonzalo 02-29251 A-110-M/S

Washington, University of Stone John 02-29314 I-175-M/S

Washington, University of Warren Stephen 00-03826 O-201-M

West Florida, University of Jeffrey Wade 01-27022 B-200-N

Wisconsin Madison, University of Halzen Francis 02-36449,03-31873 A-333-S

Wisconsin Madison, University of Morse Robert 99-80474 A-130-S

Wisconsin Madison, University of Stearns Charles 01-26262 O-202-M/P/S

Wisconsin Madison, University of Stearns Charles 00-88058 O-283-M/P/S

Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Gast Rebecca 01-25833 B-207-N

Wyoming, University of Deshler Terry 02-30424 A-131-M


USAP Stations in Antarctica

Amundsen-Scott South Pole Station

McMurdo Station

Palmer Station

RV/IB Nathaniel B. Palmer

RV Laurence M. Gould

Special Projects

Click on a link to view a list of projects at each station.


Projects Sorted by Event Number Digits

PI Last Name PI FirstName

NSF/OPPAward # Project Title Event #

002 Kiene Ronald 02-30497 Impact of solar radiation and nutrients on biogeochemicalcycling of DMSP and DMS in the Ross Sea, Antarctica B-002-N

003 Day Thomas 02-30579 Response of terrestrial ecosystems along the AntarcticPeninsula to a changing climate B-003-P

005 DeVries Arthur 02-31006

Antifreeze proteins in antarctic fishes: Integrated studies offreezing environments and organismal freezing avoidance,protein structure-function and mechanism, genes, andevolution

B-005-M

009 Garrott Robert 02-25110 Patterns and processes: Dynamics of the Erebus BayWeddell seal population B-009-M

010 Kim Stacy 01-26319 Community dynamics in a polar ecosystem: Benthic recoveryfrom organic enrichment in the Antarctic B-010-M

011 Uhle Maria 02-30237 Biogeochemistry of Victoria Land coastal ponds: Role interrestrial ecosystem organic carbon dynamics and structure B-011-M

012 Petzel David 02-29462 Drinking and sodium/potasium-ATPase alpha-subunit isoformexpression in antarctic fish B-012-M

013 Fraser William 02-17282Palmer Long Term Ecological Research (LTER): Climate,ecological migration, and teleconnections in an ice-dominatedenvironment

B-013-L/P

015 Bowser Samuel 02-16043 Remotely operable micro-environmental observatory forantarctic marine biology research B-015-M

016 Vernet Maria 02-17282Palmer Long Term Ecological Research (LTER): Climate,ecological migration, and teleconnections in an ice-dominatedenvironment

B-016-L/P

019 Connell Laurie 01-25611 Yeasts in the antarctic Dry Valleys: Biological role,distribution, and evolution B-019-M

021 Martinson Douglas 02-17282Palmer Long Term Ecological Research (LTER): Climate,ecological migration, and teleconnections in an ice-dominatedenvironment

B-021-L

022 Amsler Charles 01-25181 The chemical ecology of shallow-water marine macroalgaeand invertebrates on the Antarctic Peninsula

B-022-L/P

023 Veit Richard 99-83751 Dynamics of predator-prey behavior in the Antarctic Ocean B-023-L

025 Hunt George 02–34570SGER

Food web structure across a large-scale ocean productivitygradient: Top predator assemblages in the southern IndianOcean

B-025-E

027 Dye Timothy 01-25893 Culture and health in Antarctica B-027-M

028 Quetin Langdon 02-17282Palmer Long Term Ecological Research (LTER): Climate,ecological migration, and teleconnections in an ice-dominatedenvironment

B-028-L/P

029 Marsh Adam 02-38281 Genomic networks for cold-adaptation in embryos of polar B-029-M

marine invertebrates

031 Ainley David 01-25608 Geographic structure of Adelie penguin populations:Demography of population expansion B-031-M

032 Smith Raymond 02-17282Palmer Long Term Ecological Research (LTER): Climate,ecological migration, and teleconnections in an ice-dominatedenvironment

B-032-L/P

033 Lange Andrew 02-30438 Background Imaging of Cosmic Extragalactic Polarization(BICEP): An experimental probe of inflation A-033-S

034 Emslie Steven 01-25098 Occupation history and diet of Adélie penguins in the RossSea region B-034-M

035 Nevitt Gabrielle 02-29775 The development of olfactory foraging strategies in antarcticprocellariiform seabirds B-035-E

038 Blanchette Robert 02-29570 Investigations on deterioration in the historic huts of Antarctica B-038-E/M

039 Detrich William 01-32032 ICEFISH 2003: International collaborative expedition to collectand study fish indigenous to sub-antarctic habitats B-039-N

040 Trivelpiece Wayne 01-25985 Foraging behavior and demography of Pygoscelis penguins B-040-E

045 Ducklow Hugh 02-17282Palmer Long Term Ecological Research Project (LTER):Climate, ecological migration, and teleconnections in an ice-dominated environment

B-045-L/P

047 Smith Walker 00-87401 Interannual variability in the Antarctic-Ross Sea (IVARS):Nutrients and seasonal production B-047-M

052 Mullins Jerry 02-33246 Geodesy and geospatial program G-052-M/P/S

058 Harvey Ralph 99-80452 The Antarctic Search for Meteorites (ANSMET) G-058-M

061 Case Judd 00-03844 Evolution and biogeography of Late Cretaceous vertebratesfrom the James Ross Basin, Antarctic Peninsula G-061-E

064 Renne Paul 01-25194 Calibration of cosmogenic argon production rates inAntarctica

G-064-M

065 Blake Daniel 99-08856 Global climate change and the evolutionary ecology ofantarctic mollusks in the Late Eocene G-065-E

067 Grew Edward 02-28842 Boron in antarctic granulite-facies rocks: Under whatconditions is boron retained in the middle crust? G-067-E

071 Stock Joann 01-26334 Improved Cenozoic plate reconstructions of the circum-Antarctic Region G-071-N

078 Kemerait Robert NSF/OPP-DoD MOA Dry Valley seismic project G-078-

M

079 Wilson Terry 02-30285 Transantarctic Mountains deformation network: GPSmeasurements of neotectonic motion in the antarctic interior

G-079-M

081 Kyle Philip 02-29305 Mount Erebus Volcano Observatory and Laboratory (MEVOL) G-081-M

086 Naveen Ron 02-30069 Long-term data collection at select Antarctic Peninsula visitorsites B-086-E

087 Dalziel Ian 00-03619 A GPS network to determine crustal motions in the bedrock ofthe West Antarctic Ice Sheet (WAIS)

G-087-M

089 Wiens Douglas 99-09603 A broadband seismic experiment to investigate deepcontinental structure across the east-west Antarctic boundary

G-089-M

EAR 00- G-090-

090 Butler Rhett 04370 IRIS - Global Seismograph Station at South Pole P/S

094 Miller Molly 01-26146Late Paleozoic-Mesozoic fauna, environment, climate, andbasinal history: Beardmore Glacier area, TranantarcticMountains

G-094-M

095 Taylor Edith 01-26230 Permian and Triassic floras from the Beardmore Glacierregion: Icehouse to greenhouse?

G-095-M

099 Wilson Terry 01-25624 Neotectonic structure of Terror Rift, Western Ross Sea G-099-N

100 Fraser-Smith Antony 01-38126 The Operation of an ELF/VLF Radiometer at Arrival Heights,Antarctica A-100-M

102 Engebretson Mark 02-33169Conjugate studies of ultra-low-frequency (ULF) waves andmagnetospheric dynamics using ground-based inductionmagnetometers at four high-latitude manned sites

A-102-M/S

103 Caldwell Douglas 01-26313 A search for extrasolar planets from the South Pole A-103-S

104 Mende Stephen 02-30428 Dayside auroral imaging at South Pole A-104-S

108 Inan Umran 00-93381 A very-low-frequency (VLF) beacon transmitter at South Pole(2001-2004) A-108-S

109 Gaisser Thomas 99-80801 South Pole Air Shower Experiment - SPASE 2 A-109-S

110 Hernandez Gonzalo 02-29251 Austral high-latitude atmospheric dynamics A-110-M/S

111 Rosenberg Theodore 00-03881 Riometry in Antarctica and conjugate region A-111-M/S

112 Rosenberg Theodore 03-34467 Polar Experiment Network for Geophysical Upper-Atmospheric Investigations (PENGUIN) A-112-M

117 Ejiri Masaki U.S./Japanagreement All-Sky imager at South Pole A-117-S

120 Bieber John 00-00315 Spaceship Earth: Probing the solar wind with cosmic rays A-120-M/S

125 Müller Dietrich NSF/NASAagreement

Tracer-Lite II: Transition Radiation Array for Cosmic EnergeticRadiation, a balloon borne instrument A-125-M

128 LaBelle James 00-90545 A versatile electromagnetic waveform receiver for South PoleStation A-128-S

129 Sivjee Gulamabas 99-09339

Effects of enhanced solar disturbances during the 2000-2002solar-max period on the antarctic mesosphere-lower-thermosphere (MLT) and F regions composition,thermodynamics and dynamics

A-129-S

130 Morse Robert 99-80474 Antarctic Muon And Neutrino Detector Array (AMANDA) A-130-S

131 Deshler Terry 02-30424Measurements addressing quantitative ozone loss, polarstratospheric cloud nucleation, and large polar stratosphericparticles during austral winter and spring

A-131-M

136 Lessard Marc 01-32576 Measurement and analysis of extremely-low-frequency (ELF)waves at South Pole Station A-136-S

144 Smith David ATM 02-33370

Development and test flight of a small, automated balloonpayload for observations of terrestrial x-rays

A-144-E/M

145 Stepp William NSF/NASAagreement Long Duration Balloon Program (LDB) A-145-M

149 Binns Walter NSF/NASAagreement Trans-Iron Galactic Element Recorder (TIGER) / ANITA-lite A-149-M

Antarctic cretaceous-Cenozoic climate, glaciation, and

152 Luyendyk Bruce 00-88143 tectonics: Site surveys for drilling from the edge of the RossIce Shelf

G-152-N

153 Mayewski Paul 02-29573A science management office for the United Statescomponent of the International Trans Antarctic ScientificExpedition (ITASE) -- South Pole to Northern Victoria Land

I-153-M

161 Cuffey Kurt 01-25579 Dynamics and climatic response of the Taylor Glacier system. I-161-M

165 Thiemens Mark 01-25761 South Pole Atmospheric Nitrate Isotopic Analysis (SPANIA) I-165-M/S

175 Stone John 02-29314 Late Quaternary history of Reedy Glacier I-175-M/S

176 Eisele Fred 02-30246 Antarctic Troposphere Chemistry Investigation (ANTCI) O-176-M/S

177 Sowers Todd 02-30021 Refining a 500-thousand-year climate record from the Mt.Moulton blue ice field in West Antarctica I-177-M

178 Hamilton Gordon 02-29245 Glaciology of blue ice areas in Antarctica I-178-M

182 Tauxe Lisa 02-29403 Geomagnetic field as recorded in the Mount Erebus VolcanicProvince: Key to field structure at high southern latitudes

G-182-M

184 Severinghaus Jeffrey 02-30452 How thick is the convective zone?: A study of firn air in themegadunes near Vostok I-184-M

186 Scambos Theodore 01-25570 Characteristics of snow megadunes and their potential effectson ice core interpretation I-186-M

190 MacAyeal Douglas 02-29546 Collaborative research of Earth's largest icebergs I-190-M

191 Kreutz Karl 02-28052 Dry Valleys Late Holocene climate variability I-191-M

195 Priscu John MCB 02-37335

Microbial diversity and function in the permanently ice-covered lakes of the McMurdo Dry Valleys B-195-M

196 Hall Brenda 01-24014Millennial-scale fluctuations of Dry Valleys lakes: A test ofImplications for regional climate variability and theinterhemispheric (a)synchrony of climate change

I-196-M

197 Ponganis Paul 02-29638 Diving physiology and behavior of emperor penguins B-197-M

198 Fraser William 01-30525 Monitoring the human impact and environmental variability onAdelie Penguins at Palmer Station B-198-P

200 Jeffrey Wade 01-27022POTATOE: Production Observations Through AnotherTranslatitudinal Oceanic Expedition: Alaska to Antarctica; theMother Of All Transects (MOAT)

B-200-N

201 Warren Stephen 00-03826 Solar radiation processes on the East Antarctic Plateau O-201-M

202 Stearns Charles 01-26262 Antarctic Meteorological Research Center (AMRC) (2002-2005)

O-202-M/P/S

203 Neale Patrick 01-27037 Interactive effects of UV radiation and vertical mixing onphytoplankton and bacterioplankton in the Ross Sea B-203-N

204 Keeling Ralph ATM 00-00923

A study of atmospheric oxygen variability in relation to annualto decadal variations in terrestrial and marine ecosystems

O-204-P/S

205 Anandakrishnan Sridhar 02-29629 Tidal modulation of ice stream flow I-205-M

206 Goes Joaquim 01-26150Ultraviolet-radiation-induced changes in the patterns ofproduction and composition of biochemical compoundsantarctic marine phytoplankton

B-206-N

207 Gast Rebecca 01-25833 Comparative and quantitative studies of protistan molecularecology and physiology in coastal antarctic waters B-207-N

208 Gargett Ann 01-25818 Interactive effects of UV and Vertical mixing on phytoplanktonand bacterioplankton in the Ross Sea B-208-N

209 Conway Howard 00-87345 Western divide WAISCORES site selection I-209-M

210 Conway Howard 00-87144 Glacial history of Ridge AB I-210-M

212 Frazer Thomas 03-36469SGER

Complex pelagic interactions in the Southern Ocean:Deciphering the antarctic paradox B-212-E

213 Walden Von NASAaward

Validation of the Atmospheric Infrared Sounder (AIRS) overthe Antarctic Plateau

O-213-M

214 Takahashi Taro 00-03609 Mesoscale, seasonal and inter-annual variability of surfacewater CO2 in the Drake Passage O-214-L

215 Gordon Arnold 01-25172 ANSLOPE: Cross slope exchanges at the antarctic slopefront O-215-N

218 Bledsoe Lucy . Palmer Station children's novel W-218-P

219 Armstrong Jennifer . Ice Through the Ages: A nonfiction young adult book W-219-M/S

220 Baskin Yvonne . Soil biodiversity book W-220-M

221 Larson Edward . History of science in Antarctica W-221-M

223 Cokinos Christopher . The fallen sky: Eccentrics and scientists in pursuit of shootingstars

W-223-M

224 Conrad Lawrence(Larry) . Field guide to antarctic features: McMurdo Sound region W-224-

M

225 Measures Christopher 02–30445 Plankton community structure and iron distribution in thesouthern Drake Passage B-225-L

228 Mitchell B. Greg 02-30445 Plankton community structure and iron distribution in thesouthern Drake Passage B-228-L

239 Hildebrand John 99-10007 Mysticete whale acoustic census in the GLOBEC westantarctic project area B-239-L

248 Zhou Meng 02-29966 Plankton community structure and iron distribution in thesouthern Drake Passage B-248-L

253 Eicken Hajo 01-26007 Measurements and improved parameterizations of thethermal conductivity and heat flow through first-year sea ice

O-253-M

255 Murcray Frank 02-30370 Infrared measurements of atmospheric composition overAntarctica

A-255-M/S

257 Hofmann Dave NOAA/NSFagreement

South Pole monitoring for climatic change: U.S. Departmentof Commerce NOAA Climate Monitoring and DiagnosticLaboratory

O-257-S

259 Lyons W. Berry 02-29836 Soil biodiversity and response to climate change: A regionalcomparison of Cape Hallett and Taylor Valley B-259-M

260 Sprintall Janet 00-03618 The Drake Passage high density XBT/XCTD program O-260-L

264 Hofmann David NOAA/NSFagreement

Collection of atmospheric air for the NOAA/CMDL worldwideflask sampling network O-264-P

266 Kieber David 02-30499 Impact of solar radiation and nutrients on biogeochemicalcycling of DMSP and DMS in the Ross Sea B-266-N

272 DiTullio Giacomo 02-30513 Iron and light effects on Phaeocystis antarctica isolates fromthe Ross Sea B-272-M

275 Sanderson Colin MOU withDOE

Remote Atmospheric Measurements Program (RAMP) of theUniversity of Miami / U.S. Department of Energy'sEnvironmental Measurements Lab

O-275-P/S

283 Stearns Charles 00-88058 Antarctic Automatic Weather Station Program (AWS): 2001-2004

O-283-M/P/S

284 Avery Susan ATM 00-00957

Dynamics of the antarctic mesosphere-lower-thermosphere(MLT) region using ground-based radar and TIMEDinstrumentation

A-284-S

285 Yen Jeannette 03-24539 Dynamic similarity or size proportionality?: Adaptations of apolar copepod

B-285-E/L

291 Goodge John 02-30280 Geophysical mapping of the east antarctic shield adjacent tothe Transantarctic Mountains

G-291-M

293 Taylor Edith 02-29877 Shackleton Glacier area: Evolution of vegetation during theTriassic

G-293-M

294 Ashworth Allan 02-30696Terrestrial paleoecology and sedimentary environment of theMeyer Desert Formation, Beardmore Glacier, TransantarcticMountains

G-294-M

295 Johns Bjorn EAR 99-03413

University NAVSTAR Consortium (UNAVCO) GPS surveysupport

G-295-M

297 Babcock Loren 02-29757Paleobiology and taphonomy of exceptionally preservedfossils from Jurassic Lacustrine deposits, Beardmore Glacierarea and southern Victoria Land, Antarctica

G-297-M

298 Hammer William 02-29698Vertebrate Paleontology of the Triassic to Jurassicsedimentary sequence in the Beardmore Glacier area ofAntarctica

G-298-M

299 Retallack Gregory 02-30086 Permian-Triassic mass extinction in Antarctica G-299-M

306 Inan Umran 02-33955 Global thunderstorm activity and its effects on the radiationbelts and the lower ionosphere A-306-P

309 Steffen Konrad NASAaward

AMSR sea ice validation during the R/V Laurence M. Gould'straverse to Antarctica O-309-L

314 Hansen Anthony DBI 01-19793

Solar/wind powered instrumentation module development forpolar environmental research

O-314-M

315 Firing Eric 98-16226 Shipboard acoustic Doppler current profiling aboard theresearch vessel Nathaniel B. Palmer O-315-N

317 Chereskin Teresa 98-16226 Shipboard acoustic Doppler current profiling aboard theresearch vessel Laurence M. Gould O-317-L

320 Kvitek Rikk 02-29991 Victoria Land latitudinal gradient project: Benthic marinehabitat characterization B-320-E

321 Palinkas Lawrence 00-90343 Prevention of environment-induced decrements in mood andcognitive performance

B-321-M/S

333 Halzen Francis 02-36449,03-31873 IceCube A-333-S

371 Stark Antony 01-26090 Antarctic Submillimeter Telescope and Remote Observatory(AST/RO) A-371-S

373 Carlstrom John 00-94541 Degree Angular Scale Interferometer (DASI) A-373-S

376 Novak Giles 01-30389 Mapping galactic magnetic fields with SPARO A-376-S

377 Stacey Gordon 00-94605 Wide-field imaging spectroscopy in the submillimeter:Deploying SPIFI on AST/RO A-377-S

378 Holzapfel William 02-32009 High-resolution obervations of the cosmic microwavebackground (CMB) with ACBAR A-378-S

379 Carlstrom John 01-30612 South Pole observations to test cosmological models A-379-S

420 Lyons W. Berry 98-10219McMurdo Dry Valleys Long Term Ecological Research(LTER): The role of natural legacy on ecosystem structureand function in a polar desert

B-420-M

421 McKnight Diane 98-10219McMurdo Dry Valleys Long Term Ecological Research(LTER): The role of natural legacy on ecosystem structureand function in a polar desert

B-421-M

422 Priscu John 98-10219McMurdo Dry Valleys Long Term Ecological Research(LTER): The role of natural legacy on ecosystem structureand function in a polar desert

B-422-M

423 Virginia Ross 98-10219McMurdo Dry Valleys Long Term Ecological Research(LTER): The role of natural legacy on ecosystem structureand function in a polar desert

B-423-M

424 Wall Diana 98-10219McMurdo Dry Valleys Long Term Ecological Research(LTER): The role of natural legacy on ecosystem structureand function in a polar desert

B-424-M

425 Fountain Andrew 98-10219McMurdo Dry Valleys Long Term Ecological Research(LTER): The role of natural legacy on ecosystem structureand function in a polar desert

B-425-M

426 Doran Peter 98-10219McMurdo Dry Valleys Long Term Ecological Research(LTER): The role of natural legacy on ecosystem structureand function in a polar desert

B-426-M

518 Kennicutt, II Mahlon SGER Spatial and temporal scales of human disturbance B-518-M

2003-2004 USAP Field SeasonDeploying Participants

Current as of 1 September 2003

Last Name First Name Event #

Abraham Jared G-291-M

Aciego Sarah I-161-M

Ackermann Markus A-130-S

Adams Byron B-424-M

Ahrens Jens Christopher A-130-S

Ainley David B-031-M

Albershardt Lou I-184-M

Allen Phil B-426-M

Amsler Margaret B-022-L/P

Amsler Jr Charles B-022-L/P

Anderson Cynthia B-013-L/P

Anderson Eric G-291-M

Arcone Steven I-191-M

Arenz Brett B-038-M/E

Armstrong Jennifer W-219-M/S

Arthus-Bertrand Yann W-217-M

Ashley Michael A-103-S

Ashworth Allan G-294-M

Asper Vernon B-047-M

Ave Maximo A-125-M

Avery James A-284-S

Avery Susan A-284-S

Azam Farooq B-228-L

Babcock Loren G-297-M

Backstrom Lars O-253-M

Baker Bill B-022-L/P

Baker Teresa G-071-E

Baker David G-071-E

Baldwin Amy B-200-N

Ballard Grant B-031-M

Barbeau Katherine B-228-L

Barlow Stephen A-110-M/S

Barrett John B-259-M

Bartek Louis G-152-N

Bartel Beth Ann G-295-M

Baskin Yvonne W-220-M

Bauer Robert I-186-M

Becker Luann G-299-M

Below Ashley B-206-N

Benedix Gretchen G-058-M

Bering, III Edgar A-144-M/E

Bernardini Elisa A-130-S

Besson David A-130-S

Besson David A-149-M

Bevis Michael G-087-M

Bindschadler Robert I-205-M

Binns Walter A-149-M

Bisgrove John B-266-N

Blair Jeffrey B-015-M

Blaise Collin A-130-S

Blake Daniel G-065-E

Bledsoe Lucy W-218-P

Blick Graeme G-079-M

Blight Louise B-031-M

Bliss Andrew I-161-M

Bliss Andrew I-190-M

Boersma David A-130-S

Bohm Christian A-130-S

Bolsey Robin A-333-S

Bonal Nedra G-099-N

Bond Angela I-175-M/S

Borochin Roman B-011-M

Botta Oliver G-058-M

Bowser Samuel B-015-M

Boyle Patrick (Jojo) A-125-M

Braddock Peter G-291-M

Braddock Peter G-298-M

Brandt Richard O-201-M

Brasfield Paul A-145-M

Bratcher Amy O-215-N

Brauer Philip B-012-M

Braun Dana A-149-M

Brogenski Colleen G-081-M

Bromley Gordon I-196-M

Brooks Steve O-176-M/S

Brooksforce Kathryn O-215-N

Broos Emma B-424-M

Buchanan David G-293-M

Buchanan David G-095-M

Buckelew Stacey B-040-E

Burgess Thomas A-130-S

Burmeister Kurtis G-065-E

Caldwell Douglas A-103-S

Calkins Julie Ann G-081-M

Cantrill David G-294-M

Caplin-Auerbach Jacquelin G-081-M

Carlstrom John A-373-S

Carson Chris G-067-E

Cartwright John A-373-S

Cary Craig B-259-M

Case Judd G-061-E

Case Anne O-176-M/S

Cassano John O-283-M/S/P

Catania Ginny I-210-M

Catapano Kathleen B-423-M

Cathles Lawrence I-186-M

Cavallerano Ed B-034-M

Chabot Nancy G-058-M

Chambers Reid A-145-M

Chang Jeff A-108-S

Cheng Brian B-028-L/P

Cheng-De Vries Chi-Hing B-005-M

Chereskin Teresa O-317-L

Cherwinka Jeff A-333-S

Chin Nancy B-027-M

Christian Eric A-149-M

Churchwell Steve A-130-S

Clark Andy O-257-S

Clayton Robert G-071-E

Coats Larry B-034-M

Cobble Mark A-145-M

Cohen Barbara G-058-M

Cokinos Christopher G-058-M

Cokinos Christopher W-223-M

Collinson James G-298-M

Conlan Kathleen B-010-M

Connell Laurie B-019-M

Constable Cathy G-182-M

Conway Howard I-210-M

Conway Maurice I-210-M

Conway Howard I-175-M/S

Conway Maurice I-175-M/S

Conway Howard I-209-M

Conway Maurice I-209-M

Conway Thomas O-264-P

Cook Darla A-145-M

Cook Willie B-031-M

Coons Douglas B-015-M

Corsolini Simonetta B-040-E

Courville Zoe I-186-M

Cozzetto Karen B-421-M

Craig Scott B-019-M

Crawford Emily G-071-E

Cuffey Kurt I-161-M

Cullen Nicolas O-309-L

Cully Timothy G-094-M

Cuneo N. Ruben G-293-M

Cuneo N. Ruben G-095-M

Currie Philip G-298-M

Daghlian Charles G-293-M

Daghlian Charles G-095-M

Dagit Rosemary B-086-E

Dalziel Ian G-087-M

Damaske Detlef G-291-M

Das Sarah I-205-M

Daub Michael A-378-S

Davis Marcy G-099-N

Davison Victor A-145-M

Davour Anna Kristina A-130-S

Day Allan A-373-S

Day Thomas B-003-P

De Lizo Liza B-047-M

De Vries Arthur B-005-M

Del Sontro Tonya Sue G-152-N

Dennett Mark B-207-N

Denney IV Andrew A-145-M

Deshler Terry A-131-M

Di Donfrancesco Guido A-131-M

DiTullio Giacomo B-272-M

Dibb Jack O-176-M/S

Dicks Ethan A-103-S

Dickson Bev B-005-M

Dixon Daniel I-153-M

Dolbey Derek A-145-M

Dombard Andrew G-058-M

Doran Peter B-426-M

Dorland Ryan B-248-L

Dowkontt Paul A-149-M

Doyle Timothy G-071-E

Dozier Ann B-027-M

Drag Eugene A-125-M

Ducklow Hugh B-045-P/L

Dugger Katie B-031-M

Dunbar Nelia I-177-M

Dutton Geoff O-257-S

Duvernois Michael A-149-M

Dye Timothy B-027-M

Ebnet Amy B-425-M

Eicken Hajo O-253-M

Eisch Jonathan A-333-S

Eisele Fred O-176-M/S

Ejiri Masaki A-117-S

Ellison Susan B-009-M

Ellwood Robin B-426-M

Emslie Steven B-034-M

Engel Jonna B-010-M

Epstein John A-149-M

Evans Clive B-005-M

Evenson Paul A-333-S

Evenson Paul A-120-M/S

Fahnestock Mark I-186-M

Fairhead V. Anne B-022-L/P

Faloon Katrina I-196-M

Feser Thomas A-130-S

Field Chris A-145-M

Fielman Kevin B-029-M

Filiatrault Kevin G-078-M

Finn Carol G-291-M

Fisher Jennifer B-010-M

Fitzgibbon Timothy B-259-M

Flaig Peter G-094-M

Fogal Pierre A-255-M/S

Foreman Christine B-422-M

Forrest Steven B-086-E

Forte Philip B-005-M

Forte Philip B-015-M

Fountain Andrew B-425-M

Francis Jane G-294-M

Franco Hugo A-145-M

Franklin Linda B-203-N

Franks Jill I-190-M

Fraser William B-013-L/P

Frazer Tom B-212-E

Frederic Romero-Wolf Andrew A-125-M

Gaisser Thomas A-109-S

Garcia Nathan B-272-M

Gargett Ann B-208-N

Garrott Robert B-009-M

Gast Rebecca B-207-N

Geier Sven A-149-M

Geisz Heidi B-013-L/P

Gerecht Eyal A-371-S

Gerstell Marguerite G-071-N

Gille Sarah B-228-L

Glass Alexexander G-065-E

Glavin Daniel G-299-M

Glover Robert G-079-M

Goes Joaquim B-206-N

Gomes Helga do Rosario B-206-N

Gonzalez Angel G-052-M/S/P

Goodge John G-291-M

Gorham Peter W A-149-M

Gottas Daniel O-176-M/S

Grant Donald G-052-M/S/P

Grant Donald G-079-M

Green James A-333-S

Green Kristen B-028-L/P

Grejner-Brzezinska Dorota G-079-M

Grenfell Thomas O-201-M

Grew Edward G-067-E

Gross Benjamin G-071-N

Gurnis Michael G-071-E

Habara Yoshiaki B-197-M

Hackathorn Eric O-257-S

Hadley Scott A-145-M

Hadley Gillian B-009-M

Hage Melissa B-011-M

Hall Brenda I-175-M/S

Hall Brenda I-196-M

Hallam Cheryl G-052-M/S/P

Halter Bradley O-213-M

Hammer William G-298-M

Hannaford Terry A-130-S

Hannaford Terry A-333-S

Hansen Anthony O-314-M

Harada Hyakubun B-002-N

Harnett Julienne A-371-S

Harvey Ralph G-058-M

Haupt Alison B-028-L/P

Hawat Toufic A-255-M/S

Hawthorne Ann W-224-M

Hedden Abigail A-371-S

Heil Justin B-197-M

Helbing Klaus A-130-S

Hellwig Marc A-130-S

Helmig Detlev O-176-M/S

Henderson Randall A-145-M

Hendy Chris I-196-M

Henrys Stuart G-099-N

Hernandez Gonzalo A-110-M/S

Hewes Christopher B-228-L

Hobbie John A-145-M

Hoefling Kevin B-005-M

Hofstee Erica I-196-M

Holder Steven A-149-M

Holm-Hansen Osmund B-228-L

Holzapfel William A-378-S

Hopkins David B-424-M

Horne Peter B-016-L/P

Hothem Larry G-079-M

Hothem Larry G-052-M/S/P

Howard Meg B-011-M

Huber Bruce O-215-N

Hudson Stephen O-201-M

Huerta Audrey G-089-M

Huff Russel O-309-L

Hulth Per Olof A-130-S

Huss Leeland A-144-M/E

Hutterli Manuel O-176-M/S

Hyrenbach David B-025-E

Hörandel Jöerg A-125-M

Iampietro Pat B-320-E

Iannuzzi Richard B-021-L

Inan Umran A-306-P

Inan Umran A-108-S

Ireland Darren B-009-M

Isbell John G-094-M

Jackson Jimmy G-078-M

Jarnyk Mark A-103-S

Jaros Christopher B-421-M

Jeffrey Wade B-200-N

Jeffries Martin O-253-M

Johnson Wayne A-125-M

Johnson Bryan O-257-S

Johnston Mark B-009-M

Joslin Justin B-421-M

Joughin Ian B-031-M

Joughin Ian I-205-M

Jung Deborah B-195-M

Jurgens Joel B-038-M/E

Kaiser Amy B-028-L/P

Karl Brian B-031-M

Karle Albrecht A-130-S

Kavanaugh Jeffrey I-161-M

Keeling Ralph O-204-S/P

Kelderhouse Gary (gak) A-125-M

Kelley John A-333-S

Kelly Peter G-081-M

Kendall Lindsay B-029-M

Kestel Martin A-130-S

Keys John (Harry) Ross G-081-M

Khatiwala Samar O-215-N

Kieber David B-266-N

Kiene Ronald B-002-N

Kihm Allen G-061-E

Kim Hyomin A-136-S

Kim Stacy B-010-M

Kim Young-Jin I-190-M

Kinoshita Glen O-257-S

Klein Andrew B-518-M

Klein Erich A-145-M

Klopatek Jeffrey B-003-P

Knepprath Nicole G-094-M

Knight Kimberly G-064-M

Knuth Shelley O-283-M/S/P

Knuth Shelley O-202-M/S/P

Koch Zelinda G-094-M

Kokorowski MIchael A-144-M/E

Konter Jasper G-182-M

Kooi Jacob A-371-S

Kooyman Gerald B-197-M

Kosciuch Edward O-176-M/S

Kovac John A-373-S

Kozlowski Wendy B-016-L/P

Krahmann Gerd O-215-N

Kravchenko Ilya A-130-S

Krejny Megan A-376-S

Kress Monika G-058-M

Kreutz Karl I-191-M

Kruger Kevin G-298-M

Kuehn Kyler A-333-S

Kulesa Craig A-371-S

Kurbatov Andrei I-178-M

Kurnik Charles G-295-M

Kvitek Rikk B-320-E

Kyle Philip G-081-M

LaBelle James A-128-S

Lampert Michael A-131-M

Landis Carol B-420-M

Lane Adair A-371-S

Larson Edward W-221-M

Lawver Lawrence G-099-N

LeBlanc Jaqueline B-023-L

Leaffer Oren A-378-S

Leitch Erik A-373-S

Lempa Jenna B-203-N

Lenn Yueng-Djern O-317-L

Leslie Stephen G-297-M

Lessard Marc A-136-S

Lewis Craig B-010-M

Li Hua-Bai A-376-S

Liewer Kurt A-149-M

Link Jason A-149-M

Loehr Andrea A-371-S

Loewenstein Robert A-376-S

Lohrmann Nissa B-206-N

Longenecker David O-213-M

Loomis Eli B-032-L/P

Lueuthold Matthius A-130-S

MacAyeal Douglas I-190-M

MacDonald Mikel G-078-M

Mactutis Anthony T. A-110-M/S

Madigan Michael B-195-M

Malone Daniel B-010-M

Marcelo Reguero G-061-E

Marciniewski Pawel A-333-S

Markarov Nikolai A-284-S

Marsh Adam B-029-M

Marshall Gregory B-197-M

Martin Kevin A-103-S

Martin Marie-Caroline B-023-L

Martin Daniel B-028-L/P

Martin James G-061-E

Martin Kylara G-071-E

Martinez Lisandro A-129-S

Martinez Rene G-058-M

Martinson Douglas B-021-L

Martwick Fred O-215-N

Massoli Paola A-131-M

Masters Otto (Joe) A-145-M

Mastroianni Joseph O-314-M

Mastromarino Joe O-176-M/S

Matsuno Shigenobu A-149-M

Matsuoka Kenichi I-209-M

Mauldin III Roy O-176-M/S

McCabe Justin I-165-M/S

McCarthy Michael A-110-M/S

McCarthy Forrest G-294-M

McClintock James B-022-L/P

McCormick William G-058-M

McCoy Kim B-032-L/P

McDermott Andrew A-333-S

McIntosh William I-177-M

McKenna Kerry B-422-M

McKnight Diane B-421-M

McWethy David B-040-E

Meador Jarah B-200-N

Measures Christopher B-225-L

Mele Philip O-215-N

Mende Stephen A-104-S

Mercer Jennifer A-131-M

Meredith Robert G-061-E

Messarius Alf Timo A-130-S

Metzger Christine G-299-M

Middaugh Nikki B-045-P/L

Mikelich Shauna G-081-M

Mikucki Jill B-422-M

Milford Robert "Ty" G-297-M

Millan Robyn A-144-M/E

Miller Molly G-094-M

Mills Anne B-045-P/L

Mitchell B. Greg B-228-L

Moeller Heinz-Dieter G-291-M

Moody Ryan G-065-E

Moore Joel B-195-M

Moore John I-178-M

Moran Dawn B-207-N

Morehead Sally B-518-M

Moriconi Maria Luisa A-131-M

Morris Sarah G-079-M

Morris Kim O-253-M

Morrison John B-012-M

Morse Robert A-130-S

Morse Bob A-333-S

Morse David I-161-M

Moss Joseph B-200-N

Mulligan Mark A-333-S

Mullins Jerry G-052-M/S/P

Mutiso Charles A-129-S

Müller Dietrich A-125-M

Nahnhauer Rolf A-333-S

Nakayama Masahige O-309-L

Nam Jiwoo A-130-S

Naveen Ronald B-086-E

Neale Patrick B-203-N

Neumann Thomas I-153-M

Neunteufel Evelyn B-023-L

Nevitt Gabrielle B-035-E

Newcomb Matthew A-378-S

Nicholson John A-371-S

Nikola Thomas A-377-S

Nkem Johnson B-424-M

Norman Shaun G-299-M

Northrop Richard A-125-M

Novak Giles A-376-S

Nylen Thomas B-425-M

Oakden James B-010-M

Oberst Thomas A-377-S

Okal Emile I-190-M

Okal Marianne I-190-M

Olson John A-255-M/S

Oppenheimer Clive Matthew Martin G-081-M

Orben Rachael B-031-M

Orsi Alejandro O-215-N

Osburn Glenn G-089-M

Osinski Gordon G-058-M

Osterberg Erich I-191-M

Otis Pascale B-031-M

Otis Pascale B-005-M

Pace Leonard B-029-M

Pakulski Joseph B-200-N

Palinkas Lawrence B-321-M/S

Palo Scott A-284-S

Panter Kurt G-081-M

Park Ji-Hyung B-003-P

Parker Tim I-190-M

Parra Julie G-071-E

Parsley Steven A-377-S

Paschal Evans A-108-S

Patterson Donna B-013-L/P

Paulos Robert A-333-S

Paulos Robert A-130-S

Payne Joseph A-112-M

Pelletreau Karen B-016-L/P

Peloquin Jill B-047-M

Peloquin Jill B-203-N

Perez-Campos Xyoli G-071-E

Pernic Dave A-125-M

Pernic Robert A-376-S

Pernic Robert A-373-S

Person Amanda G-061-E

Peters Kevin B-022-L/P

Peters Leo I-205-M

Peterson Jeffrey A-378-S

Pettit Erin I-209-M

Petzel Anne B-012-M

Petzel David B-012-M

Peyton Valerie G-090-S/P

Pickering Brett B-013-L/P

Pinsky Malin B-023-L

Pluhar Ray B-047-M

Poage Michael B-423-M

Polissar Pratigya I-177-M

Polito Michael B-040-E

Ponganis Katherine B-197-M

Ponganis Paul B-197-M

Popp Trevor I-177-M

Poreda Robert G-299-M

Portnyagin Yuri A-284-S

Powell Christopher B-208-N

Priscu John B-422-M

Priscu John B-195-M

Proffitt Kelly B-009-M

Pryke Clement A-373-S

Puerta Pablo G-095-E

Puerta Pablo G-293-M

Puetz Patrick A-371-S

Pyle Moira G-089-M

Quetin Langdon B-028-L/P

Quinby Helen B-045-P/L

Range Bradford A-131-M

Rapoport Shana B-045-P/L

Raymond Charles I-210-M

Reddell Brandon A-144-M/E

Redinger Robert A-145-M

Redman Regina B-019-M

Reedy Kathleen B-321-M/S

Reichardt Christian A-378-S

Reiser Mike G-291-M

Retallack Gregory G-299-M

Richter Steffen A-130-S

Riebe Cliff G-064-M

Riley Paul A-136-S

Riseman Sarah B-272-M

Roberts Jennifer G-061-E

Roberts Donald A-145-M

Roberts Jennifer G-061-E

Roberts Stephen G-090-S/P

Roberts James O-176-M/S

Rode Alycia G-297-M

Rodriguez Russell B-019-M

Rodriguez-Morales Fernando A-371-S

Rogers Lauren B-045-P/L

Roland Norbert G-291-M

Romero-Wolf Andrew A-125-M

Roof Steven G-294-M

Rose Julie B-207-N

Rosen Marc A-149-M

Ross Ronald I-190-M

Ross Robin B-028-L/P

Roth James A-333-S

Roth William O-213-M

Ruhl John A-378-S

Ruhland Christopher B-003-P

Sajor Andrew G-298-M

Salerno Jennifer B-045-P/L

Saltzberg David A-149-M

Sample John A-144-M/E

Sanders John I-161-M

Sanders Robert B-207-N

Santora Jarrod B-023-L

Sato Katsufumi B-197-M

Sattley William B-195-M

Savage Brian G-071-E

Savarino Joel I-165-M/S

Saweny Safiya B-029-M

Sawyer John Foster G-061-E

Scambos Theodore I-186-M

Schaffner Rebecca B-207-N

Schneider Darryn A-130-S

Schneider Darryn A-333-S

Schnetzer Astrid B-207-N

Schutt John G-058-M

Scofield Margaret B-012-M

Scott Lauren A-149-M

Sebbo Jessie B-047-M

Sedwick Peter B-272-M

Seifert Jason O-257-S

Sergienko Olga I-190-M

Severinghaus Jeffrey I-184-M

Sheldon Nathan G-299-M

Shepanek Marc B-321-M/S

Shields Amy B-047-M

Shore Patrick G-089-M

Shulman Leonard A-120-M/S

Shultz Edward A-333-S

Shulz Barbara B-019-M

Sidor Christian G-094-M

Simburger Garry A-149-M

Simon Daniel O-257-S

Sines Karie B-016-L/P

Sivjee Gulamabas A-129-S

Six Delphine O-201-M

Sjostedt Steven O-176-M/S

Slezak Dorothea B-002-N

Smalley Jr Robert G-087-M

Smith David A-144-M/E

Smith Raymond B-032-L/P

Smith Walker B-047-M

Smith Joseph B-248-L

Smith Nathan G-298-M

Smith Roger G-299-M

Smykla Jerzy B-034-M

Snels Marcel A-131-M

Sniffen Peter B-425-M

Sobrino Cristina B-203-N

Sowers Todd I-177-M

Spencer Jim G-087-M

Spikes V. Blue I-178-M

Stacey Gordon A-377-S

Stamatikos Michael A-130-S

Stanhope Jennifer Wu B-047-M

Staniszewski Zachary A-378-S

Stark Antony A-371-S

Staudigel Hubert G-182-M

Stearns Leigh I-178-M

Steffen Konrad O-309-L

Stephens Richard B-200-N

Stepp William A-145-M

Sterling Rick A-112-M

Sterling Karen Henrichs B-015-M

Stewart Brent B-009-M

Stock Joann G-071-E

Stockard Torre (Knower) B-197-M

Stokstad Robert A-130-S

Stone John I-175-M/S

Storey John A-103-S

Stoyles Amy B-019-M

Strauss Sarah B-003-P

Stucker Rebekka B-423-M

Sulanke Karl-Heinz A-130-S

Sullivan David A-145-M

Summers Erica B-320-E

Suwa Makoto I-184-M

Sweeney Dawn Catherine G-081-M

Sweet Stephen B-518-M

Swindle Timothy G-058-M

Swordy Simon A-125-M

Szela Tracy B-029-M

Talley Shannon B-028-L/P

Tan David O-176-M/S

Tanner David O-176-M/S

Tauxe Lisa G-182-M

Taylor Edith G-293-M

Taylor Thomas G-293-M

Taylor Edith G-095-M

Taylor Thomas G-095-M

Templeton Mary I-190-M

Thiemens Mark I-165-M/S

Thollander Lars A-130-S

Thom Jonathan O-283-M/S/P

Thom Jonathan I-190-M

Thoma Mark A-125-M

Thomas Kate B-320-E

Thomas Cristina G-071-E

Thompson Wayne G-061-E

Thorson Phil B-197-M

Thurnherr Andreas O-215-N

Tilav Serap A-109-S

Todd Claire I-175-M/S

Toniolo Viola B-031-M

Toole Deirdre B-266-N

Tothill Nicolas A-371-S

Tozzi Sasha B-047-M

Tranter Martyn B-425-M

Travao Matthew B-207-N

Trivelpiece Susan B-040-E

Trivelpiece Wayne B-040-E

Tsapin Alexandre B-422-M

Turnipseed Mary B-015-M

Turnipseed Mary B-045-P/L

Tutsumi Masaki A-117-S

Uhle Maria B-011-M

Ustach Joseph B-047-M

Veit Richard B-023-L

Venema Bryan A-110-M/S

Vernet Maria B-016-L/P

Viet Richard B-025-E

Vineyard John G-090-S/P

Virginia Ross B-423-M

Visbeck Martin O-215-N

Voigt Donald I-205-M

Voigt Donald G-089-M

Vukajlovich Dana G-071-E

Waddington Ed I-209-M

Wagner Wolfgang A-130-S

Wakely Scott A-125-M

Walden Von O-213-M

Waldron Patricia B-012-M

Walker Christopher A-371-S

Wall Diana B-424-M

Wall Diana B-259-M

Wang You-Ren A-130-S

Wang Haili B-228-L

Warren Stephen O-201-M

Warshawsky Mathew O-176-M/S

Waszkiewicz Mike I-191-M

Watson Timothy G-089-M

Watts Jason B-028-L/P

Weatherwax Allan A-128-S

Wefel John A-145-M

Weidner George O-283-M/S/P

Weiss Stephanie B-022-L/P

Weissburg Marc B-285-E/L

Welch Kathleen B-420-M

White Bryan B-016-L/P

White Emily B-266-N

Whitney Michael A-130-S

Whittaker Thomas I-196-M

Wiedemann Christin A-130-S

Wiederspahn Mark G-099-N

Williamson Bruce I-191-M

Willis Michael G-079-M

Wilson Peter B-031-M

Wilson Terry G-079-M

Wilson Terry G-099-N

Wilton-Godberfforde Ruth A-110-M/S

Winant Chloe G-071-E

Winberry Paul I-205-M

Winter Brian G-081-M

Winters Wade G-061-E

Wise Nathan A-145-M

Witherow Rebecca B-420-M

Wright Gregory A-371-S

Wuite Jan G-079-M

Wumkes Mark (Tony) I-184-M

Ye Shengyi A-128-S

Yen Jeannette B-285-E/L

Yochem Pamela B-009-M

Yoshida Shigeru A-333-S

Yu Ching-Hwa A-103-S

Yudan Yi G-079-M

Yukimatsu Akira A-117-S

Zhao Xin A-371-S

del Valle Daniela B-002-N

2003-2004 USAP Field SeasonTeachers Experiencing Antarctica and the Arctic

(TEA)

NSFContact:

Guy G. Guthridge National Science Foundation4201 Wilson Blvd.Arlington, VA [email protected]

List of 2003-2004 teachers and the science projects they are joining

For information about each teacher, visit http://tea.rice.edu

Teachers Experiencing Antarctica and the Arctic is sponsored by NSF Office of

Polar Programs and the Division of Elementary, Secondary, and Informal Educationin the Directorate of Education and Human Resources. It is facilitated by RiceUniversity, the Cold Regions Research and Engineering Laboratory, and theAmerican Museum of Natural History.

Candidates are nominated by principal investigators or by themselves. Selectionsare made in a competitive process. Awardees travel to Antarctica and becomeworking members of research teams. Principal investigators volunteer to acceptTEAs on their teams.

TEA is part of the NSF's strategy to integrate research and education in an effortto infuse education with the joy of discovery and an awareness of its connections toexploration. The program's goals are to immerse teachers in research as part oftheir professional development, to bring polar research into the classroom inengaging ways, to underscore the societal relevance of science and the scientificprocess, and to maintain a lively community among researchers, teachers,students, and school districts.

NSF funds the extra of supporting teachers including: ·

A substitute while the teacher is away ·Travel to the investigator's institution before the trip ·Travel by the teacher to Antarctica ·Travel by the investigator to the teacher's school district for joint presentations

This is an exciting program that offers benefits to the research team, the teacher,the classroom, and K-12 students both present and future. Teachers and school


http://tea.rice.edu/

districts can find more information at http:tea.rice.edu.

Teacher School EventNumber

PrincipalInvestigator Project

MichaelLampert

West Salem HighSchoolSalem, OR

A-131-M

TerryDeshler

Measurements addressingquantitative ozone loss ,polarstratospheric Cloud Nucleation, andlarge polar stratospheric particlesduinrg austral winter and spring

Andres SajorPeru CentralSchoolPeru, NY

G-298-M

WilliamHammer

Vertebrate Paleontology of theTriassic to Jurassic Sequence in theBeardmore Glacier Area ofAntarctica

ColeenBrogenski

St. John's SchoolHouston, TX

G-081-M Philip Kyle Mount Erebus Volcano Observatory

and Laboratory (MEVOL)

RobinEllwood

Rye Junior HighSchoolRye, NH

B-426-M Peter Doran

McMurdo Dry Valleys LTER: Therole of natural legacy on ecosystemstructure and function in a polardesert

Amy StoylesHarlee MiddleSchoolBradenton, FL

B-019-M

LaurieConnell

Yeasts in the Antarctic Dry Valleys:Biological Role, Distribution, andEvolution

Susy Ellison

Yampah MountainHigh SchoolGlenwood Springs,CO

B-009-M Bob Garrott

Patterns and Processes: Dynamicsof the Erebus Bay Weddell SealPopulation

http://tea.rice.edu/


Scouting in Antarctica

NSF Contact:

Guy G. Guthridge National Science Foundation4201 Wilson Blvd.Arlington, VA [email protected]

Cooperative programs between the National Science Foundation and America's two major

scouting organizations -- Girl Scouts of the USA and Boy Scouts of America -- sponsor anational competition every two years to select a scout for participation in the U.S. AntarcticProgram.

The goal is to acquaint the boy or girl scout with a variety of science disciplines and withcareer opportunities in polar research and operational support. The scout, through scoutingpublications and sites on their home pages, shares his or her Antarctic experience with themany other members of the two scouting groups. Inclusion of a scout in the USAP began whenPaul Siple joined Richard E. Byrd's expedition 70 years ago.

For the 2003-2004 season, Boy Scout Brad Range of Marietta, Georgia, has been selected.Mr. Range has completed the freshman year at the Georgia Institute of Technology, where heis majoring in mechanical engineering. He graduated from Alan C. Pope High School in 2002,where he developed an interest in science, played several musical instruments, was a memberof Academic Bowl and the National Honor Society, studied chaos theory, researched liquidcrystal displays, built and tested logic circuits, and surveyed watershed environments whileachieving 21 merit badges to earn the rank of Eagle Scout. Also as a Scout, he served aschaplain aide and senior patrol leader, and he now volunteers as an assistant scoutmaster.

Mr. Range will work at McMurdo, South Pole, and camps, and aboard Nathaniel B. Palmerfrom August 2003 to April 2004. He will join science and engineering events whose PIs orproject leaders have volunteered to integrate him into their teams for a week or more each,beginning with measurements of polar stratospheric clouds, condensation nuclei, and ozoneand ending with study of continental slope morphology.


Brad Range4660 Three Springs CourtMarietta, Georgia 30062

Next season, the opportunity will go to a Girl Scout.

2003-2004 USAP Field SeasonUSAP Media Visitors

NSFContact:

Peter West, Public AffairsOfficerOffice of Legislative and PublicAffairsNational Science [email protected]

4201 Wilson Blvd., Room 1245Arlington, VA 22230703.292.8070

Each year the National Science Foundation selects a limited number of journalists to visit USAPresearch stations and report on the scientific work being done. The program's goal is inform Americantaxpayers about the publicly supported program. Without NSF support, these visits would be difficult orimpossible since there is no commercial transportation to the continent or within it.

Public affairs officers from NSF's Office of Legislative and Public Affairs (OLPA) assist reporters duringtheir stay in Antarctica. Many reporters maintain their interest in the program for years after they visit thesouthernmost continent. A reporter may join a research cruise or spend an extended time at a field camp.They may focus on research in a particular discipline, pursue a broader interest in the science programas a whole, or concentrate on a specific project taking place that season.

The Antarctic "group media tour" of the past has been replaced by individual visits, and there are manymore requests than can be met. Journalists apply to the program by proposing a reporting plan based onideas often developed in conjunction with OLPA's staff. Candidates are selected on a competitive basisby a committee drawn from OLPA and the Office of Polar Programs (OPP). The program is open tomedia professionals and representatives from a variety of media may be selected in a given year.

Media visitors for the 2003-2004 field season have not yet been selected.



McMurdo Station

Event # NSF/OPPAward # PI Last Name PI First

Name Project Title

B-031-M 01-25608 Ainley David Geographic structure of Adelie penguin populations: Demography ofpopulation expansion

I-205-M 02-29629 Anandakrishnan Sridhar Tidal modulation of ice stream flow

W-219-M/S . Armstrong Jennifer Ice Through the Ages: A nonfiction young adult book

G-294-M 02-30696 Ashworth Allan Terrestrial paleoecology and sedimentary environment of the Meyer

Desert Formation, Beardmore Glacier, Transantarctic Mountains

G-297-M 02-29757 Babcock Loren

Paleobiology and taphonomy of exceptionally preserved fossils fromJurassic Lacustrine deposits, Beardmore Glacier area and southernVictoria Land, Antarctica

W-220-M . Baskin Yvonne Soil biodiversity book

A-120-M/S 00-00315 Bieber John Spaceship Earth: Probing the solar wind with cosmic rays

A-149-M NSF/NASAagreement Binns Walter Trans-Iron Galactic Element Recorder (TIGER) / ANITA-lite

B-015-M 02-16043 Bowser Samuel Remotely operable micro-environmental observatory for antarcticmarine biology research

W-223-M . Cokinos Christopher The fallen sky: Eccentrics and scientists in pursuit of shooting stars

B-019-M 01-25611 Connell Laurie Yeasts in the antarctic Dry Valleys: Biological role, distribution, andevolution

W-224-M . Conrad Lawrence

(Larry) Field guide to antarctic features: McMurdo Sound region

I-209-M 00-87345 Conway Howard Western divide WAISCORES site selection

I-210-M 00-87144 Conway Howard Glacial history of Ridge AB

I-161-M 01-25579 Cuffey Kurt Dynamics and climatic response of the Taylor Glacier system.

G-087-M 00-03619 Dalziel Ian A GPS network to determine crustal motions in the bedrock of the

West Antarctic Ice Sheet (WAIS)

B-005-M 02-31006 DeVries ArthurAntifreeze proteins in antarctic fishes: Integrated studies of freezingenvironments and organismal freezing avoidance, protein structure-function and mechanism, genes, and evolution

A-131-M 02-30424 Deshler TerryMeasurements addressing quantitative ozone loss, polarstratospheric cloud nucleation, and large polar stratosphericparticles during austral winter and spring

B-272-M 02-30513 DiTullio Giacomo Iron and light effects on Phaeocystis antarctica isolates from theRoss Sea

B-426-M 98-10219 Doran PeterMcMurdo Dry Valleys Long Term Ecological Research (LTER): Therole of natural legacy on ecosystem structure and function in a polardesert

B-027-M 01-25893 Dye Timothy Culture and health in Antarctica

O-253-M 01-26007 Eicken Hajo Measurements and improved parameterizations of the thermal

conductivity and heat flow through first-year sea ice

O-176-M/S 02-30246 Eisele Fred Antarctic Troposphere Chemistry Investigation (ANTCI)

B-034-M 01-25098 Emslie Steven Occupation history and diet of Adélie penguins in the Ross Searegion

A-102-M/S 02-33169 Engebretson Mark

Conjugate studies of ultra-low-frequency (ULF) waves andmagnetospheric dynamics using ground-based inductionmagnetometers at four high-latitude manned sites

B-425-M 98-10219 Fountain AndrewMcMurdo Dry Valleys Long Term Ecological Research (LTER): Therole of natural legacy on ecosystem structure and function in a polardesert

A-100-M 01-38126 Fraser-Smith Antony The Operation of an ELF/VLF Radiometer at Arrival Heights,Antarctica

B-009-M 02-25110 Garrott Robert Patterns and processes: Dynamics of the Erebus Bay Weddell sealpopulation

G-291-M 02-30280 Goodge John Geophysical mapping of the east antarctic shield adjacent to the

Transantarctic Mountains

I-196-M 01-24014 Hall BrendaMillennial-scale fluctuations of Dry Valleys lakes: A test ofImplications for regional climate variability and the interhemispheric(a)synchrony of climate change

I-178-M 02-29245 Hamilton Gordon Glaciology of blue ice areas in Antarctica

G-298-M 02-29698 Hammer William Vertebrate Paleontology of the Triassic to Jurassic sedimentary

sequence in the Beardmore Glacier area of Antarctica

O-314-M

DBI 01-19793 Hansen Anthony Solar/wind powered instrumentation module development for polar

environmental research

G-058-M 99-80452 Harvey Ralph The Antarctic Search for Meteorites (ANSMET)

A-110-M/S 02-29251 Hernandez Gonzalo Austral high-latitude atmospheric dynamics

G-295-M

EAR 99-03413 Johns Bjorn University NAVSTAR Consortium (UNAVCO) GPS survey support

G-078-M

NSF/OPP-DoD MOA Kemerait Robert Dry Valley seismic project

B-518-M SGER Kennicutt, II Mahlon Spatial and temporal scales of human disturbance

B-010-M 01-26319 Kim Stacy Community dynamics in a polar ecosystem: Benthic recovery fromorganic enrichment in the Antarctic

I-191-M 02-28052 Kreutz Karl Dry Valleys Late Holocene climate variability

B-320-E 02-29991 Kvitek Rikk Victoria Land latitudinal gradient project: Benthic marine habitatcharacterization

G-081-M 02-29305 Kyle Philip Mount Erebus Volcano Observatory and Laboratory (MEVOL)

W-221-M . Larson Edward History of science in Antarctica

B-259-M 02-29836 Lyons W. Berry Soil biodiversity and response to climate change: A regionalcomparison of Cape Hallett and Taylor Valley

McMurdo Dry Valleys Long Term Ecological Research (LTER): The

B-420-M 98-10219 Lyons W. Berry role of natural legacy on ecosystem structure and function in a polardesert

I-190-M 02-29546 MacAyeal Douglas Collaborative research of Earth's largest icebergs

B-029-M 02-38281 Marsh Adam Genomic networks for cold-adaptation in embryos of polar marineinvertebrates

I-153-M 02-29573 Mayewski PaulA science management office for the United States component ofthe International Trans Antarctic Scientific Expedition (ITASE) --South Pole to Northern Victoria Land

B-421-M 98-10219 McKnight DianeMcMurdo Dry Valleys Long Term Ecological Research (LTER): Therole of natural legacy on ecosystem structure and function in a polardesert

G-094-M 01-26146 Miller Molly Late Paleozoic-Mesozoic fauna, environment, climate, and basinal

history: Beardmore Glacier area, Tranantarctic Mountains

A-255-M/S 02-30370 Murcray Frank Infrared measurements of atmospheric composition over Antarctica

A-125-M NSF/NASAagreement Müller Dietrich Tracer-Lite II: Transition Radiation Array for Cosmic Energetic

Radiation, a balloon borne instrument

B-321-M/S 00-90343 Palinkas Lawrence Prevention of environment-induced decrements in mood and

cognitive performance

B-012-M 02-29462 Petzel David Drinking and sodium/potasium-ATPase alpha-subunit isoformexpression in antarctic fish

B-197-M 02-29638 Ponganis Paul Diving physiology and behavior of emperor penguins

B-195-M MCB 02-37335 Priscu John Microbial diversity and function in the permanently ice-covered

lakes of the McMurdo Dry Valleys

B-422-M 98-10219 Priscu JohnMcMurdo Dry Valleys Long Term Ecological Research (LTER): Therole of natural legacy on ecosystem structure and function in a polardesert

G-064-M 01-25194 Renne Paul Calibration of cosmogenic argon production rates in Antarctica

G-299-M 02-30086 Retallack Gregory Permian-Triassic mass extinction in Antarctica

A-111-M/S 00-03881 Rosenberg Theodore Riometry in Antarctica and conjugate region

A-112-M 03-34467 Rosenberg Theodore Polar Experiment Network for Geophysical Upper-AtmosphericInvestigations (PENGUIN)

I-186-M 01-25570 Scambos Theodore Characteristics of snow megadunes and their potential effects on icecore interpretation

I-184-M 02-30452 Severinghaus Jeffrey How thick is the convective zone?: A study of firn air in themegadunes near Vostok

B-047-M 00-87401 Smith Walker Interannual variability in the Antarctic-Ross Sea (IVARS): Nutrientsand seasonal production

I-177-M 02-30021 Sowers Todd Refining a 500-thousand-year climate record from the Mt. Moultonblue ice field in West Antarctica

A-145-M NSF/NASAagreement Stepp William Long Duration Balloon Program (LDB)

I-175-M/S 02-29314 Stone John Late Quaternary history of Reedy Glacier

G-182-M 02-29403 Tauxe Lisa Geomagnetic field as recorded in the Mount Erebus Volcanic

Province: Key to field structure at high southern latitudes

G-095-M 01-26230 Taylor Edith Permian and Triassic floras from the Beardmore Glacier region:

Icehouse to greenhouse?

G-293-M 02-29877 Taylor Edith Shackleton Glacier area: Evolution of vegetation during the Triassic

I-165-M/S 01-25761 Thiemens Mark South Pole Atmospheric Nitrate Isotopic Analysis (SPANIA)

B-011-M 02-30237 Uhle Maria Biogeochemistry of Victoria Land coastal ponds: Role in terrestrialecosystem organic carbon dynamics and structure

B-423-M 98-10219 Virginia RossMcMurdo Dry Valleys Long Term Ecological Research (LTER): Therole of natural legacy on ecosystem structure and function in a polardesert

O-213-M

NASAaward Walden Von Validation of the Atmospheric Infrared Sounder (AIRS) over the

Antarctic Plateau

B-424-M 98-10219 Wall DianaMcMurdo Dry Valleys Long Term Ecological Research (LTER): Therole of natural legacy on ecosystem structure and function in a polardesert

O-201-M 00-03826 Warren Stephen Solar radiation processes on the East Antarctic Plateau

G-089-M 99-09603 Wiens Douglas A broadband seismic experiment to investigate deep continental

structure across the east-west Antarctic boundary

G-079-M 02-30285 Wilson Terry Transantarctic Mountains deformation network: GPS measurements

of neotectonic motion in the antarctic interior


Amundsen-Scott South Pole Station

Event # NSF/OPPAward #

PI LastName

PI FirstName Project Title

W-219-M/S . Armstrong Jennifer Ice Through the Ages: A nonfiction young adult book

A-284-S ATM 00-00957 Avery Susan Dynamics of the antarctic mesosphere-lower-thermosphere (MLT)

region using ground-based radar and TIMED instrumentation

A-120-M/S 00-00315 Bieber John Spaceship Earth: Probing the solar wind with cosmic rays

G-090-P/S

EAR 00-04370 Butler Rhett IRIS - Global Seismograph Station at South Pole

A-103-S 01-26313 Caldwell Douglas A search for extrasolar planets from the South Pole

A-373-S 00-94541 Carlstrom John Degree Angular Scale Interferometer (DASI)

A-379-S 01-30612 Carlstrom John South Pole observations to test cosmological models

O-176-M/S 02-30246 Eisele Fred Antarctic Troposphere Chemistry Investigation (ANTCI)

A-117-S U.S./Japanagreement Ejiri Masaki All-Sky imager at South Pole

A-102-M/S 02-33169 Engebretson Mark

Conjugate studies of ultra-low-frequency (ULF) waves andmagnetospheric dynamics using ground-based inductionmagnetometers at four high-latitude manned sites

A-109-S 99-80801 Gaisser Thomas South Pole Air Shower Experiment - SPASE 2

A-333-S 02-36449,03-31873 Halzen Francis IceCube

A-110-M/S 02-29251 Hernandez Gonzalo Austral high-latitude atmospheric dynamics

O-257-S NOAA/NSFagreement Hofmann Dave South Pole monitoring for climatic change: U.S. Department of

Commerce NOAA Climate Monitoring and Diagnostic Laboratory

A-378-S 02-32009 Holzapfel William High-resolution obervations of the cosmic microwave background(CMB) with ACBAR

A-108-S 00-93381 Inan Umran A very-low-frequency (VLF) beacon transmitter at South Pole (2001-2004)

O-204-P/S

ATM 00-00923 Keeling Ralph A study of atmospheric oxygen variability in relation to annual to

decadal variations in terrestrial and marine ecosystems

A-128-S 00-90545 LaBelle James A versatile electromagnetic waveform receiver for South Pole Station

A-033-S 02-30438 Lange Andrew Background Imaging of Cosmic Extragalactic Polarization (BICEP): Anexperimental probe of inflation

A-136-S 01-32576 Lessard Marc Measurement and analysis of extremely-low-frequency (ELF) waves atSouth Pole Station

A-104-S 02-30428 Mende Stephen Dayside auroral imaging at South Pole

A-130-S 99-80474 Morse Robert Antarctic Muon And Neutrino Detector Array (AMANDA)

A-255-M/S 02-30370 Murcray Frank Infrared measurements of atmospheric composition over Antarctica

A-376-S 01-30389 Novak Giles Mapping galactic magnetic fields with SPARO

B-321-M/S 00-90343 Palinkas Lawrence Prevention of environment-induced decrements in mood and cognitive

performance

A-111-M/S 00-03881 Rosenberg Theodore Riometry in Antarctica and conjugate region

O-275-P/S

MOU withDOE Sanderson Colin

Remote Atmospheric Measurements Program (RAMP) of the Universityof Miami / U.S. Department of Energy's Environmental MeasurementsLab

A-129-S 99-09339 Sivjee GulamabasEffects of enhanced solar disturbances during the 2000-2002 solar-maxperiod on the antarctic mesosphere-lower-thermosphere (MLT) and Fregions composition, thermodynamics and dynamics

A-377-S 00-94605 Stacey Gordon Wide-field imaging spectroscopy in the submillimeter: Deploying SPIFIon AST/RO

A-371-S 01-26090 Stark Antony Antarctic Submillimeter Telescope and Remote Observatory (AST/RO)

I-175-M/S 02-29314 Stone John Late Quaternary history of Reedy Glacier

I-165-M/S 01-25761 Thiemens Mark South Pole Atmospheric Nitrate Isotopic Analysis (SPANIA)


Palmer Station


PI LastName


B-022-L/P 01-25181 Amsler Charles The chemical ecology of shallow-water marine macroalgae and

invertebrates on the Antarctic Peninsula

W-218-P . Bledsoe Lucy Palmer Station children's novel

G-090-P/S

EAR 00-04370 Butler Rhett IRIS - Global Seismograph Station at South Pole

B-003-P 02-30579 Day Thomas Response of terrestrial ecosystems along the Antarctic Peninsula to achanging climate

B-045-L/P 02-17282 Ducklow Hugh Palmer Long Term Ecological Research Project (LTER): Climate, ecological

migration, and teleconnections in an ice-dominated environment

B-013-L/P 02-17282 Fraser William Palmer Long Term Ecological Research (LTER): Climate, ecological


B-198-P 01-30525 Fraser William Monitoring the human impact and environmental variability on AdeliePenguins at Palmer Station

O-264-P NOAA/NSFagreement Hofmann David Collection of atmospheric air for the NOAA/CMDL worldwide flask sampling

network

A-306-P 02-33955 Inan Umran Global thunderstorm activity and its effects on the radiation belts and thelower ionosphere

O-204-P/S

ATM 00-00923 Keeling Ralph A study of atmospheric oxygen variability in relation to annual to decadal

variations in terrestrial and marine ecosystems

B-028-L/P 02-17282 Quetin Langdon Palmer Long Term Ecological Research (LTER): Climate, ecological


O-275-P/S

MOU withDOE Sanderson Colin Remote Atmospheric Measurements Program (RAMP) of the University of

Miami / U.S. Department of Energy's Environmental Measurements Lab

B-032-L/P 02-17282 Smith Raymond Palmer Long Term Ecological Research (LTER): Climate, ecological


B-016-L/P 02-17282 Vernet Maria Palmer Long Term Ecological Research (LTER): Climate, ecological


2003-2004 USAP Field SeasonResearch Vessel/Icebreaker Nathaniel B Palmer

(RV/IB NBP)


PI LastName


B-039-N 01-32032 Detrich William ICEFISH 2003: International collaborative expedition to collect and study fishindigenous to sub-antarctic habitats

O-315-N 98-16226 Firing Eric Shipboard acoustic Doppler current profiling aboard the research vesselNathaniel B. Palmer

B-208-N 01-25818 Gargett Ann Interactive effects of UV and Vertical mixing on phytoplankton andbacterioplankton in the Ross Sea

B-207-N 01-25833 Gast Rebecca Comparative and quantitative studies of protistan molecular ecology andphysiology in coastal antarctic waters

B-206-N 01-26150 Goes Joaquim Ultraviolet-radiation-induced changes in the patterns of production andcomposition of biochemical compounds antarctic marine phytoplankton

O-215-N 01-25172 Gordon Arnold ANSLOPE: Cross slope exchanges at the antarctic slope front

B-200-N 01-27022 Jeffrey Wade POTATOE: Production Observations Through Another TranslatitudinalOceanic Expedition: Alaska to Antarctica; the Mother Of All Transects (MOAT)

B-266-N 02-30499 Kieber David Impact of solar radiation and nutrients on biogeochemical cycling of DMSPand DMS in the Ross Sea

B-002-N 02-30497 Kiene Ronald Impact of solar radiation and nutrients on biogeochemical cycling of DMSPand DMS in the Ross Sea, Antarctica

G-152-N 00-88143 Luyendyk Bruce Antarctic cretaceous-Cenozoic climate, glaciation, and tectonics: Site surveysfor drilling from the edge of the Ross Ice Shelf

B-203-N 01-27037 Neale Patrick Interactive effects of UV radiation and vertical mixing on phytoplankton andbacterioplankton in the Ross Sea

G-071-N 01-26334 Stock Joann Improved Cenozoic plate reconstructions of the circum-Antarctic Region

G-099-N 01-25624 Wilson Terry Neotectonic structure of Terror Rift, Western Ross Sea

2003-2004 USAP Field SeasonResearch Vessel Laurence M Gould

(RV LMG)


PI LastName


B-022-L/P 01-25181 Amsler Charles The chemical ecology of shallow-water marine macroalgae and

invertebrates on the Antarctic Peninsula

O-317-L 98-16226 Chereskin Teresa Shipboard acoustic Doppler current profiling aboard the research vesselLaurence M. Gould

B-045-L/P 02-17282 Ducklow Hugh Palmer Long Term Ecological Research Project (LTER): Climate,

ecological migration, and teleconnections in an ice-dominated environment

B-013-L/P 02-17282 Fraser William Palmer Long Term Ecological Research (LTER): Climate, ecological


B-239-L 99-10007 Hildebrand John Mysticete whale acoustic census in the GLOBEC west antarctic projectarea

B-021-L 02-17282 Martinson Douglas Palmer Long Term Ecological Research (LTER): Climate, ecologicalmigration, and teleconnections in an ice-dominated environment

B-225-L 02–30445 Measures Christopher Plankton community structure and iron distribution in the southern Drake

Passage

B-228-L 02-30445 Mitchell B. Greg Plankton community structure and iron distribution in the southern DrakePassage

B-028-L/P 02-17282 Quetin Langdon Palmer Long Term Ecological Research (LTER): Climate, ecological


B-032-L/P 02-17282 Smith Raymond Palmer Long Term Ecological Research (LTER): Climate, ecological


O-260-L 00-03618 Sprintall Janet The Drake Passage high density XBT/XCTD program

O-309-L NASAaward Steffen Konrad AMSR sea ice validation during the R/V Laurence M. Gould's traverse to

Antarctica

O-214-L 00-03609 Takahashi Taro Mesoscale, seasonal and inter-annual variability of surface water CO2 inthe Drake Passage

B-023-L 99-83751 Veit Richard Dynamics of predator-prey behavior in the Antarctic Ocean

B-016-L/P 02-17282 Vernet Maria Palmer Long Term Ecological Research (LTER): Climate, ecological


B-248-L 02-29966 Zhou Meng Plankton community structure and iron distribution in the southern DrakePassage

2003-2004 USAP Field SeasonMajor Field Camps

for McMurdo-Based Researchers

Four USAP-supported Antarctic deep-field camps will be used by McMurdo-

based researchers.

Byrd SurfaceCamp

80° 05' S, 119° 32' W

Byrd Surface Camp will support Ian Dalziel (G-087-M). One resident contract staffwill operate this camp.

Beardmore GlacierCamp

84° 00’ S, 160° 30’ E

Beardmore Glacier Camp will support six science groups: Allan Ashworth (G-294-M), Loren Babcock (G-297-M), Bill Hammer (G-298-M), Molly Miller (G-094-M),Greg Retallack (G-299-M), and Edith Taylor (G-295-M). The camp will operate as alogistical hub for helicopter and twin otter operations. Six resident contract staff willoperate this camp.

Moody NunatakCamp

83° 07’ S, 159° 30’ E

Moody Nunatak Camp will support two science groups: John Goodge (G-291-M)and Molly Miller (G-094-M). The camp will operate as a logistical hub for helicopterand twin otter operations. Four resident contract staff will operate this camp.

Megadunes Camp 80° 30’ S, 125° 00’ E

Megadunes Camp will support two science groups Ted Scambos (G-186-M) andJeff Severinghaus (G-184-M). Two resident contract staff will operate this camp..

Light Ground Traverse (LGT)

The Light Ground Traverse is a traverse over land from South Pole to Taylor Domevia AGO-4, TAMSEIS camp, and Megadunes. This traverse will support fourscience groups Paul Mayewski (I-153-M), Ted Scambos (I-186-M), Jeff

Severinghouse (I-184-M and Doug Wiens (G-089-M). Five contract staff will operatethis traverse.

2003-2004 Field Season

McMurdo Station Air Operations

McMurdo-based aircraft (Helicopters, Twin

Otter and LC-130 fixed-wing aircraft) willcontinue to support USAP researchers andprogram logistical functions.

Petroleum Helicopters Inc. (PHI) will providehelicopter support with four helicopters (twoAS-350-B2 “A-Stars” and two Bell 212s) basedout of McMurdo station. They will supportresearches in the McMurdo Dry Valleys, RoyalSociety Range and on Ross Island.

http://www.phihelico.com/

New York Air National Guard will provide re-supply and research support to South PoleStation. They will support research activities atSiple Dome, Byrd Surface Camp, TAMSEISCamp, Megadunes Camp, Beardmore GlacierCamp, Moody Nunatak Camp, and MountMoulton.

http://www-105aw.ang.af.mil/

Twin Otter aircraft, operated by Kenn BorekAir will be used by a number of projectsthroughout the USAP area of operations.

http://www.borekair.com/

http://www.phihelico.com/

http://www-105aw.ang.af.mil/

http://www.borekair.com/

Dr. David G. Ainley H.T. Harvey & Associates [email protected] http://www.penguinscience.com


Biology & Medicine Dr. Polly Penhale Program Manager

B-031-M NSF/OPP 01-25608Station: McMurdo StationRPSC POC: Melissa RiderResearch Site(s): Cape Crozier, Cape Royds, Cape Bird, Beaufort Islands, Franklin Island,Terra Nova Bay, Ross Island, McMurdo StationDates in Antarctica: Mid November to early February

Geographic structure of Adelie penguin populations: Demographyof population expansion

Geographic structure of Adelie Penguin populations:demography of population expansion

Deploying TeamMembers:

David G. Ainley . Grant Ballard . Louise Blight . Willie Cook .Katie Dugger . Ian R. Joughin . Brian J. Karl . Rachael Orben .Pascale Otis . Viola Toniolo . Peter Wilson

Research Objectives: This group investigates the mechanisms responsible for the geographicstructuring, the founding of new colonies, and the recent population expansion of the Adéliepenguins of Ross and Beaufort Islands. Similar expansion has been occurring throughout theRoss Sea, where 30 percent of the world population of this species resides, and is in some wayrelated to ameliorating climate. So far they have been examining:

+ The relative importance of resources that constrain colony growth (the amount of nestinghabitat versus access to food)

+ Aspects of natural history that might be affected by exploitative or interference competition


http://www.penguinscience.com/

among neighboring colonies (breeding success and foraging effort)

+ Climatic factors that influence the latter, especially extent and concentration of sea ice

+ Behavioral mechanisms that influence colony growth as a function of initial size and location,emigration, and immigration.

None of the colonies are limited by nesting space, and the researchers have shown how sea iceextent and concentration affect diet, foraging effort, and winter survival. In addition, largecolonies affect the foraging patterns of smaller ones within range and, perhaps, ultimately theirsize. The rate and direction of emigration also appear to be constrained by sea ice conditions,with reasonable concentrations of ice favoring growth of smaller colonies where foragingcompetition is minimal. Yet to be determined is the demographic mechanism of colony growth(or decline). Reproductive success does not appear to be important, however.

Using seven cohorts of marked penguins from each colony, researchers will assess juvenilesurvival, recruitment age, and age-specific fecundity and subsequent survival. These data willbe compared with another demographic study, the only one for this species, conducted at CapeCrozier during the 1960s and 1970s when populations were declining.

Information will be related to sea ice as quantified by satellite images. Global climate is changingfastest in the polar regions. The Adélie penguin is tied to sea ice, a primary factor in rapid polarclimate change (less sea ice, less reflection of solar energy). The extreme sensitivity of thesepenguins to climate change has been often noted. Understanding the demographic mechanismsbehind this sensitivity will contribute greatly to knowledge of the effects of climate change onantarctic marine organisms.

Dr. Charles D. Amsler University of Alabama Birmingham Department of Biology [email protected] http://www.uab.edu/uabbio/s022/



B-022-L/P NSF/OPP 01-25181Station: R/V Laurence M. Gould, PalmerStationRPSC POC: Rob EdwardsResearch Site(s): R/V Laurence M. Gould, Drake Passage, Palmer StationDates in Antarctica:

The chemical ecology of shallow-water marine macroalgae andinvertebrates on the Antarctic Peninsula

A project dive team (2 divers, 2 tenders) in Hero Inleton their way to a dive site. Photo by Maggie Amsler.


Margaret D. Amsler . Charles D. Amsler Jr . Bill J. Baker . V.

Anne Fairhead . James B. McClintock . Kevin J. Peters .Stephanie T. Weiss

Research Objectives: Many organisms are not mobile and so cannot escape from predators.One way they can keep from being eaten is to make themselves unappetizing by producingdefensive chemicals known as secondary metabolites. However, the energy and other resourcesthat go into making these compounds could instead have gone into growth or reproduction. Thisgroup studies the evolution of these tradeoffs in an effort to understand ways that organismsmaximize the usefulness of their investments in defensive chemistry.

For marine plants, the environment of Antarctica is very different from most other places in theworld's oceans because nutrients are plentiful but light is often limited. So the "currency" that"pays" for defense, growth, and reproduction is different than for plants in most other marinecommunities. This allows researchers to test theories about the costs and benefits of defense in


http://www.uab.edu/uabbio/s022/

ways not possible elsewhere in the world.

For marine animals, Antarctica is unique in that predation by sea stars is much more importantthan in other marine communities. Sea stars feed by extending their stomachs and digestingprey outside their bodies. These researchers predict that this should lead to a much higherinvestment in defensive metabolites in the outer layers of the prey. One of the main goals for the2002–2003 season will be to test the hypothesis that sponges (a very important component ofthese communities) will maximize their investment in chemical defense by having the highestlevels of defensive secondary metabolites in their outermost layers.

This research should also advance our general understanding of the evolution of chemicaldefenses. This group hopes to elucidate the nature and role of bioactive agents in the ecology ofthe antarctic marine benthos (that is, organisms living at the bottom of marine environments).

Dr. Sridhar Anandakrishnan

Pennsylvania State University Department of Geosciences andEnvironment Institution [email protected] http://www.geosc.psu.edu/~sak/Tides


Glaciology Dr. Julie Palais Program Manager

I-205-M NSF/OPP 02-29629Station: McMurdo StationRPSC POC: Charles KaminskiResearch Site(s): Siple CoastDates in Antarctica: Late October to late January

Tidal modulation of ice stream flow

Photo not available.


Robert A. Bindschadler . Sarah Das . Ian R. Joughin . Leo

Peters . Donald E. Voigt . Paul Winberry

Research Objectives: We will investigate the new-found, startling sensitivity of major westantarctic ice streams to tidal oscillations in order to learn the extent and character of the effectand its ramifications. Ice streams D, C, and Whillans (B) all show strong but distinct tidal signals.The ice plain of Whillans is usually stopped outright, forward motion being limited to two briefperiods a day, at high tide and on the falling tide. Motion propagates across the ice plain atseismic wave velocities. Near the mouth of D, tides cause a diurnal variation of about 50 percentin ice-stream speed that propagates upglacier more slowly than on Whillans, and seismic datashow that C experiences even slower upglacier propagation of signals. Tidal influences areobserved more than 100 kilometers (km) upglacier on C and more than 40 km upglacier on Dand may be responsible for fluctuations in basal water pressure reported 400 km upstream onWhillans.

During the first year, five coordinated seismic and global positioning system (GPS) instrumentpackages placed 100 kilometers apart on each stream will measure Whillans and ice stream D.


http://www.geosc.psu.edu/~sak/Tides

These packages will be deployed at sites selected by satellite imagery and will operateautonomously for two lunar cycles to study the sensitivity of the streams to spring and neaptides. Also, we will examine existing data sets for clues to the mechanisms involved and developpreliminary models.

During the second and third seasons, we will examine in greater detail the tidal behavior ofWhillans and D. We will especially focus on at least one source area for Whillans, assuming thatareas inferred from preliminary data remain active. Vertical motions have not yet been detected,but differential GPS will increase sensitivity. Seismic instrumentation will greatly increasetemporal resolution and the ability to measure the propagation speed and any spatialheterogeneity.

Improved knowledge of ice-stream behavior will contribute to assessing the potential for rapidice-sheet change affecting global sea levels. Results will be disseminated through scientificpublications and talks at professional meetings, as well as contacts with the press, universityclasses, visits to schools and community groups, and other activities.

Ms. Jennifer M. Armstrong [email protected]


Artists & Writers Mr. Guy Guthridge Program Manager

W-219-M/S NSF/OPP .Station: McMurdo Station, South PoleStationRPSC POC: Elaine HoodResearch Site(s): Dry Valleys, West Antarctic Ice SheetDates in Antarctica: Early December to late January

Ice Through the Ages: A nonfiction young adult book

Ice Through the Ages: A nonfiction young adult book

Deploying TeamMembers: Jennifer M. Armstrong

Research Objectives: Ms. Armstrong will visit sites at the South Pole, Dry Valleys, and WestAntarctica to investigate how scientists use ice in research, either as a tool or as a subject. Thebook will weave the history of ice in culture, language, art, science, technology, and ethnographyinto her narratives on the Antarctic ice projects.

Ms. Armstrong won, in 1999, the Orbis Pictus Award for Excellence in Nonfiction for Children forher book, Shipwreck at the Bottom of the World.

Ms Armstrong will make day trips and some overnight trips to areas surrounding McMurdo toobserve science. She will spend one week at the South Pole.


Dr. Allan Ashworth North Dakota State University Geosciences, Stevens Hall [email protected]


Geology & Geophysics Dr. Rama K. Kotra Program Manager

G-294-M NSF/OPP 02-30696Station: McMurdo StationRPSC POC: Melissa RiderResearch Site(s): Beardmore Glacier, McMurdo StationDates in Antarctica: Mid November to late December

Terrestrial paleoecology and sedimentary environment of theMeyer Desert Formation, Beardmore Glacier, Transantarctic

Mountains



Allan Ashworth . David J. Cantrill . Jane Francis . Forrest

McCarthy . Steven Roof

Research Objectives: Terrestrial fossils recovered from the Meyer Desert Formation areproviding paleoclimatic information about the interior of Antarctica before the growth of the greatice sheets. The site is located on the Upper Beardmore Glacier, about 500 kilometers from theSouth Pole. Southern beech wood and leaves were discovered many years ago, but since 1995,the fossils have included the seeds of several species of vascular plants, including buttercups;the stems and leaves of several species of mosses; body parts of beetles; a puparium of ahigher fly; shells of freshwater mollusks; valves of an ostracod; and a fish tooth. The largestfossils at the site are cushions of vascular plants buried in their growth positions by sediments ofglacial outwash. These sediments were deposited in stream channels and shallow poolsassociated with moraines that had been colonized by tundra-like vegetation harboring insectsand mollusks. The fossils provide the best evidence so far of how much heat the atmosphere


near the South Pole can hold.

Although the fossils are fragmentary, they are more closely related to living terrestrial andfreshwater organisms than any other fossils found in Antarctica. They are most probably thedirect descendants of an ancient biota that was part of Gondwanaland. Until the discovery of theMeyer Desert Formation, no fossils of terrestrial organisms, except for pollen and spores, wereavailable to answer questions about the evolutionary relationships between organismsdistributed in southern South America, Australia, New Zealand, and the subantarctic islands.

We will revisit the Meyer Desert Formation to locate and sample new fossiliferous horizons,construct an accurately scaled and correlated cross-section of the complex facies, and collectsamples for a pilot project to date the deposits directly. Collectively, these studies will provideinformation that should help address larger questions about the size and dynamics of the EastAntarctic Ice Sheet during the Neogene.

There is extensive public interest in Antarctica, in part because of the romance of exploration butalso because of the threat of global warming and the potential instability of the West AntarcticIce Sheet. Because Antarctica exerts a huge influence on the Earth's climate, oceaniccirculation, and sea level, knowledge about warmer climates during the Neogene is vital.

Dr. Susan K. Avery University of Colorado Boulder CIRES [email protected]


Aeronomy & Astrophysics Dr. Vladimir Papitashvili Program Manager

A-284-S NSF/OPP ATM 00-00957Station: South Pole StationRPSC POC: Charles KaminskiResearch Site(s): South Pole StationDates in Antarctica: January

Dynamics of the antarctic mesosphere-lower-thermosphere (MLT)region using ground-based radar and TIMED instrumentation



James P. Avery . Susan K. Avery . Nikolai Markarov . Scott

Palo . Yuri Portnyagin

Research Objectives: This is a propitious time to study a number of atmospheric phenomena,because of the recently-peaked 11-year solar cycle, and NASA's TIMED satellite mission. Inaddition to measurements derived from instruments on TIMED (Thermosphere-Ionosphere-Mesosphere-Energetics and Dynamics), this project will install a meteor radar at Amundsen-Scott South Pole Station. Concentrating on the dynamics of the mesosphere and lowerthermosphere, this group looks at:

+ The space-time decomposition of wave motions

+ Delineation of the spatial climatology over Antarctica with emphasis on the structure of thepolar vortex

+ Dynamical response to energetic events


+ Inter-annual variability

The meteor radar is a VHF system capable of measuring the spatial structure and temporalevolution of the horizontal wind field over the South Pole. Spatial climatology data will also comefrom existing ground-based radars at Davis Station, Syowa Station, Rothera Station, and theAmundsen-Scott base.

As NASA's TIMED satellite orbits over the South Pole, wind and temperature data will providecounterpoint and corroborative information. Experiments based both in space and on the groundmay be mounted, and data that was previously reliant on a single source can be better validated.

Dr. Loren E. Babcock Ohio State University Dept. of Geological Sciences [email protected]



G-297-M NSF/OPP 02-29757Station: McMurdo StationRPSC POC: Melissa RiderResearch Site(s): Carapace Nunatak, Beardmore Glacier, Blizzard Peak, Mount Falla,Brimstone Peak, McMurdo StationDates in Antarctica: Early November to mid December

Paleobiology and taphonomy of exceptionally preserved fossilsfrom Jurassic Lacustrine deposits, Beardmore Glacier area and

southern Victoria Land, Antarctica



Loren E. Babcock . Stephen Leslie . Robert "Ty" Milford .Alycia L. Rode

Research Objectives: Sedimentary interbeds of the Kirkpatrick Basalt represent unusual,exceptionally well preserved deposits, characterized by the presence of a variety of non-biomineralizing (so-called soft-bodied) organisms. Fieldwork in previous decades resulted in thediscovery of abundant remains of conchostracans (bivalved arthropods having non-mineralizedexoskeletons) and fishes; less common remains of various arthropods such as insects,syncarids, and isopods; and plant fragments. The arthropod and fish fossils range inpreservational quality from disarticulated pieces to articulated remains comparable to the finestin the fossil record.

Present indications are that the Kirkpatrick lake deposits offer important windows into theevolutionary history of high-latitude, freshwater ecosystems of the middle Mesozoic.


Paleoecologic and taphonomic study of these deposits can be expected to provide additionalclues to the general conditions under which exceptional preservation of non-mineralized skeletalparts, and perhaps soft parts, occurred in the geologic past. This is significant because nearly allof our current understanding of conditions surrounding exceptional preservation has beenderived from studies of marine deposits, marginal-marine deposits, or freshwater deposits fromlow to middle paleolatitudes.

Our principal objectives are to

+ Collect and systematically document the biota of the sedimentary interbeds of the Kirkpatricksites in the Beardmore Glacier area and southern Victoria Land;

+ Document and interpret taphonomic information on the Kirkpatrick sites, including diageneticalteration of fossils;

+ Describe and interpret trace fossils that are associated with the body fossils; and

+ Document and interpret the stratigraphic and sedimentologic context of exceptionalpreservation.

Considerable importance attaches to the Jurassic sites in the Transantarctic Mountains,because few sites from aqueous ecosystems of high-paleolatitude areas are known to containnon-biomineralized fossils. Completion of this study will result in a more complete understandingof the biota and paleoecology of high-latitude lake ecosystems of the middle Mesozoic. TheKirkpatrick sites will also provide information useful for interpreting Jurassic biotas in a globalcontext. Data from this study are expected to provide information on the fundamental question ofwhy exceptional preservation of organisms has occurred in freshwater, high high-latitudesettings.

Ms. Yvonne C. Baskin [email protected]



W-220-M NSF/OPP .Station: McMurdo StationRPSC POC: Elaine HoodResearch Site(s): McMurdo Station, Dry Valleys, Convoy RangeDates in Antarctica: Mid December to mid January

Soil biodiversity book

Photo of the artist by Michael E. Gilpin.

Deploying TeamMembers: Yvonne C. Baskin

Research Objectives: Until recently, scientists treated the soil as a black box, monitoring itsphysical and chemical status while ignoring the fate and identity of most members of the soilcommunity. Now research has begun to put “names and faces” on key soil organisms that arevital to sustaining aboveground food chains and maintaining the health of our air, lands, andwaters. The work of soil ecologists on the polar desert soil communities in the McMurdo DryValleys has been critical to this effort. These ultra-low-diversity systems, devoid of abovegroundplant and animal life, with nematode worms at the top of the food chain, allow researchers toexamine more easily the relationship between species diversity and key ecological processes.

Ms. Baskin plans to use her reporting in a book for general readers on the diversity andimportance of life underfoot. The book will highlight the sharp decline in soil invertebratepopulations in Taylor Valley during the last decade—apparently thanks to an anomalous coolingin that part of Antarctica—to illustrate how human activities affect even the earth’s smallest andmost remote below ground creatures.


Ms. Baskin is a freelance science writer who has published two other books on ecological topics,both from Island Press: The Work of Nature: How the Diversity of Life Sustains Us (1997) and APlague of Rats and Rubbervines: The Growing Threat of Species Invasions (2002). Her articleshave appeared in Natural History, Discover, Science, Atlantic Monthly, and numerous othermagazines.

The author will spend three to four weeks in January 2004 working with and interviewing soilecologists from the McMurdo Dry Valleys LTER program and visiting their research sites in theTaylor Valley and at Battleship Promontory.

Dr. John W. Bieber University of Delaware Bartol Research Institute [email protected] http://www.bartol.udel.edu/~neutronm/



A-120-M/S NSF/OPP 00-00315Station: McMurdo Station, South PoleStationRPSC POC: Charles KaminskiResearch Site(s): USCG Icebreaker, SkyLab, COSRAYDates in Antarctica: Early October to early April (McMurdo), mid January to mid February(South Pole)

Spaceship Earth: Probing the solar wind with cosmic rays

Solar and heliospheric studies with antarctic cosmicrays

Deploying TeamMembers: Paul A. Evenson . Leonard M. Shulman

Research Objectives: Cosmic rays -- atomic nuclei and electrons from outer space travelingnear the speed of light -- continuously bombard the earth. When they collide with nuclei ofmolecules in the upper atmosphere, they create a cascade of secondary particles that showerthe earth. Neutron monitors deployed in Antarctica provide a vital three-dimensional perspectiveon this shower of particles.

These data are used to advance our understanding of a variety of fundamental plasmaprocesses occurring on the sun and in interplanetary space. Neutron monitor records, whichbegin in 1960 at McMurdo and in 1964 at South Pole, play a crucial role in efforts to understandthe nature and causes of cosmic-ray and solar-terrestrial variations occurring over the 11-yearsunspot cycle, the 22-year Hale cycle, and even longer time scales. At the other extreme, newmethods of studying high time resolution (10-second) cosmic ray data will be used to determine


http://www.bartol.udel.edu/~neutronm/

the three-dimensional structure of turbulence in space and to understand the mechanism bywhich energetic charged particles scatter in this turbulence.

This project continues the year-round observations of cosmic rays with energies upwards of onebillion electron volts at McMurdo and South Pole stations.

Dr. Walter R. Binns Washington University Physics Department [email protected] http://cosray2.wustl.edu/current.html



A-149-M NSF/OPP NSF/NASA agreementStation: McMurdo StationRPSC POC: Curt LaBombardResearch Site(s): McMurdo Station, Williams FieldDates in Antarctica: Late October to late January

Trans-Iron Galactic Element Recorder (TIGER) / ANITA-lite

Trans-Iron Galactic Element Recorder/ANITA-lite(TIGER/ANITA-lite)


David Z. Besson . Walter R. Binns . Dana L. Braun . Eric R.

Christian . Paul F. Dowkontt . Michael Duvernois . John W.

Epstein . Sven Geier . Peter W Gorham . Steven Holder . Kurt

Liewer . Jason T. Link . Shigenobu Matsuno . Marc Rosen .David Saltzberg . Lauren M. Scott . Garry E. Simburger

Research Objectives: Our primary objectives for the Trans-Iron Galactic Element Recorder(TIGER) experiment are to measure ultra-heavy galactic cosmic rays in order to determine thesource of the material that is accelerated as galactic cosmic rays and the mechanism forinjecting that material into the cosmic ray accelerator. Specifically, TIGER will build on ourprevious work and will collect additional data in order to measure the abundance of the elementsin the charge range of interest. Our primary objectives for the Antarctic Impulsive TransientAntenna (ANITA)–lite experiment, which will fly on the same balloon with TIGER, are to measurethe ambient very-high-frequency and ultra-high-frequency (VHF/UHF) impulsive noise levels atfloat altitudes over the antarctic ice sheet. The ANITA-lite experiment is a pathfinding mission for


http://cosray2.wustl.edu/current.html

the ANITA experiment, which is a neutrino telescope that will be designed to detect neutrinosconverting in the polar ice sheet.

We will place these experiments on an long-duration balloon that will fly two revolutions aroundAntarctica to obtain a long data acquisition time for galactic cosmic rays (TIGER) and VHF/UHFimpulsive noise levels (ANITA-lite). We will collaborate with the National Scientific BalloonFacility (NSBF), which will ship our experiment and associated equipment to McMurdo Station,provide laboratory space for integration and testing, launch the TIGER/ANITA-lite payload fromWilliams Field, and conduct flight operations. We will monitor the experiment with electronicground support equipment at Williams Field for line-of-sight data. Following the flight, NSBF andproject personnel will recover the instrument and ship it back to the United States.

Dr. Daniel B. Blake University of Illinois Urbana Geology [email protected]



G-065-E NSF/OPP 99-08856Station: Special ProjectRPSC POC: John EvansResearch Site(s): Seymour Island field camp (via R/V Laurence M. Gould)Dates in Antarctica: Late November to late December

Global climate change and the evolutionary ecology of antarcticmollusks in the Late Eocene

Fossiliferous Eocene rocks on Seymour Island withCockburn Island in the background.


Daniel B. Blake . Kurtis C. Burmeister . Alexexander Glass .Ryan M. Moody

Research Objectives: Global climate change in the late Eocene had an important influence inAntarctica. This was the beginning of the transition from a cool-temperate climate to the currentone. The cooling trend strongly influenced the structure of shallow-water and antarctic marinecommunities, and these effects are evident in the ecological relationships among modernspecies. Cooling reduced the abundance of fish and crabs, which in turn reduced skeleton-crushing predation on invertebrates. Reduced predation allowed dense populations of ophiuroids(brittlestars) and crinoids (sea lilies) to appear in shallow-water settings at the end of theEocene. These low-predation communities appear as dense fossil echinoderm assemblages inthe La Meseta Formation on Seymour Island.

Today, dense ophiuroid and crinoid populations are common in the shallow waters of Antarcticabut have generally disappeared from similar habitats at temperate and tropical latitudes.Although the influence of declining predation on antarctic ophiuroids and crinoids is well


documented, the effects of cooling on the more abundant mollusks have not been investigated.We will therefore examine the evolutionary ecology of gastropods (snails) and bivalves (clams)in the late Eocene.

We will test a series of hypotheses based on the predicted responses of mollusks to decliningtemperature and changing levels of predation:

+ First, defensive features of gastropod shells, such as spines and ribbing, should decline as thetemperature and, therefore, the activity of skeleton-crushing predators declined.

+ Second, drilling of bivalve prey by predatory gastropods should increase, since the drillersshould themselves have been subject to less predation as the temperature declined. Drilledshells should become more common.

+ Third, patterns in the thickness of shells will make it possible to separate the directphysiological effects of temperature (shells are harder to produce at cooler temperatures and soshould be thinner) from the indirect effects of temperature (increased drilling predation shouldresult in thicker shells).

Seymour Island contains the only readily accessible fossil outcrops from this crucial period inAntarctica. Global climate change will probably increase upwelling in some temperate coastalregions. Evidence suggests that the resulting decline in sea temperatures could lower predationin those areas. Understanding the response of the La Meseta fauna to cooling in the lateEocene will provide direct insight into the rapidly changing structure of modern benthiccommunities.

Dr. Robert A. Blanchette University of Minnesota [email protected]



B-038-E/M NSF/OPP 02-29570Station: E/MRPSC POC: Melissa RiderResearch Site(s): Cape Evans, Cape Royds, Allan Hills, McMurdo StationDates in Antarctica: Mid to late January

Investigations on deterioration in the historic huts of Antarctica

Investigations on deterioration in the historic huts ofAntarctica

Deploying TeamMembers: Brett Arenz . Joel A. Jurgens

Research Objectives: During the first two decades of the 20th century, Europeans mounted ahandful of expeditions in hopes of reaching (and claiming) the geographic South Pole. Basecamps established in the McMurdo Sound region by Scott at Hut Point and Cape Evans and byShackleton at Cape Royds were abandoned once the expeditions were over, leaving behindthousands of artifacts, as well as the huts the explorers built for shelter and storage. Over theintervening 90 years, the extremes of the polar environment have actually protected some of theartifacts from rapid decay, but conservators have recently become concerned about the seriousdegradation of what is an important historical, archaeological site.

Some of the gravest threats are as follows:

+ Wood in contact with the ground is being destroyed by a specific wood-destroying fungus.Various molds and cellulose-degrading fungi are attacking artifacts made of leather, textiles,and other organic materials.


+ Exterior wood is being degraded by nonbiological processes as well, including salt, ultravioletradiation, and wind erosion.

+ Chemical damage within the huts is apparent, and the soils on the site are contaminated witharomatic hydrocarbons from petroleum products.

We plan to identify the biological and nonbiological agents responsible for the deterioration,study the mechanisms and progressive sequence of the events taking place, test methods to beused to control future deterioration, determine the extent of environmental pollutants in soils atthe historic sites, and evaluate chemical spills within the huts. The goal is to provide thescientific data conservators need to help protect these important sites for future generations. Butthe project should also shed light on these unique deterioration processes, as well as augmentscientific understanding of the biology of antarctic microorganisms and the biodiversity ofmicrobes present in this unusual environment.

Ms. Lucy Bledsoe [email protected]



W-218-P NSF/OPP .Station: Palmer StationRPSC POC: Elaine HoodResearch Site(s): Palmer StationDates in Antarctica: Mid November to late December

Palmer Station children's novel

Palmer Station children's novel

Deploying TeamMembers: Lucy Bledsoe

Research Objectives: Lucy Jane Bledsoe will write a sequel to The Antarctic Scoop, a middle-grades novel she researched during her 1999-2000 season on the Ice with the Antarctic Artists& Writers program. The first novel, to be published in the fall of 2003, features astrophysics atthe South Pole. The sequel will feature a biology theme at Palmer Station.

Ms. Bledsoe’s novels for young people include Cougar Canyon and Hoop Girlz. Herphotographic essay, How to Survive in Antarctica, will be published in 2004. She is a 2002-2003recipient of the California Arts Council Individual Fellowship in Literature.

Ms. Bledsoe will observe science onboard the R/V Laurence M. Gould en route to PalmerStation as well as on the return trip to Punta Arenas. She will spend one month at Palmer Stationobserving science there and in immediately surrounding areas.


Dr. Samuel S. Bowser New York State Department of Health Division of Molecular Medicine [email protected] http://www.bowserlab.org



B-015-M NSF/OPP 02-16043Station: McMurdo StationRPSC POC: Curt LaBombardResearch Site(s): McMurdo Station, New Harbor, McMurdo SoundDates in Antarctica: Early November to mid December

Remotely operable micro-environmental observatory for antarcticmarine biology research



Jeffrey R. Blair . Samuel S. Bowser . Douglas Coons . Philip E.

Forte . Karen Henrichs Sterling . Mary Turnipseed

Research Objectives: Research diving over the past two decades has yielded importantinsights into the ecological importance of giant (larger than 1 mm) foraminifera in McMurdoSound. Unfortunately, the in situ behavior of these single-celled organisms and their interactionswithin the food web can be observed only in “snapshots” during summer dives, when algalproduction is at a maximum under 24-hour light. Much would be learned by observingforaminifera over extended periods, to study mobility, response to food availability, and otherdirected behaviors. It would be valuable to be able to extend observations to the winter monthsin order to study these organisms in the dark, with no algal production, and to experimentallymanipulate in situ conditions and observe the behavioral response.

Research diving requires costly support and cannot provide extended observation of individualorganisms. Moreover, the logistical requirements, costs, complexities, and risks of winter divingat remote locations in Antarctica are prohibitive. However, human diving is not required to make


http://www.bowserlab.org/

long-term in situ observations. Technology and communications have advanced to the pointwhere it is feasible and practical to install video macro- and microview cameras in a submersibleenclosure, transmitting both live and sequential time-lapse images over the Internet to a remoteuser throughout the year. Such an instrumentation platform could then be used for experimentalmanipulation of the environment.

We intend to develop a submersible, remotely operable underwater observatory for the study offoraminifera and associated benthic fauna. This observatory would be connected to a shorelineunit by fiberoptic cable and linked by radio to the Internet for year-round access. The design andoperation of this observatory will function as a technology template to meet other year-roundantarctic research requirements by means of telescience rather than personnel deployment.

Dr. Rhett G. Butler Incorporated Research Institutions forSeismology Global Seismograph Network ProgramManager [email protected]



G-090-P/S NSF/OPP EAR 00-04370Station: Palmer Station, South Pole StationRPSC POC: Charles KaminskiResearch Site(s): South Pole StationDates in Antarctica: Early November to mid January

IRIS - Global Seismograph Station at South Pole


Deploying TeamMembers: Valerie I. Peyton . Stephen C. Roberts . John J. Vineyard

Research Objectives: Seismology, perhaps as much as any other science, is a globalenterprise. Seismic waves resulting from earthquakes and other events can only be interpretedthrough simultaneous measurements at strategic points all over the planet. The measurementand analysis of these seismic waves are not only fundamental for the study of the earthquakes,but also serve as the primary data source for the study of the Earth's interior. To help establishthe facilities required for this crucial scientific mission, IRIS (the Incorporated ResearchInstitution for Seismology) was created in 1985.

IRIS is a consortium of universities with research and educational programs in seismology.Ninety-seven universities are currently members, including nearly all U.S. universities that runseismological research programs. Since 1986, IRIS (through a cooperative agreement with theNational Science Foundation (NSF) and in cooperation with the U.S. Geological Survey) hasdeveloped and installed the Global Seismographic Network (GSN). The GSN now has about 135broadband, digital, high-dynamic-range, seismographic stations around the world, all with real-


time communications.

The GSN seismic equipment at Amundsen-Scott South Pole Station and at Palmer Station,Antarctica, was installed jointly by IRIS and ISGS, who together continue to operate andmaintain them. The GSN sites in Antarctica are vital to seismic studies of Antarctica and theSouthern Hemisphere. The state-of-the-art seismic instrumentation is an intrinsic component ofthe NSF effort to advance seismology and Earth science globally.

Dr. Douglas A. Caldwell SETI Institute (Search for ExtraterrestrialIntelligence) [email protected] http://www-space.arc.nasa.gov/~vulcan/south/



A-103-S NSF/OPP 01-26313Station: South Pole StationRPSC POC: Charles KaminskiResearch Site(s): Dark SectorDates in Antarctica: Early January to early February

A search for extrasolar planets from the South Pole

A search for extrasolar planets from the South Pole


Michael C.B. Ashley . Douglas A. Caldwell . Ethan R. Dicks .Mark Jarnyk . Kevin R. Martin . John Storey . Ching-Hwa Yu

Research Objectives: We will operate a small optical telescope at the South Pole to search forand characterize extrasolar planets by continuously following a southern galactic star field with acharge-coupled device photometer and searching for the periodic dimming that occurs as aplanet transits its parent star.

The recent discovery of many close-in giant exoplanets has expanded our knowledge of otherplanetary systems and has demonstrated how different such systems can be from the solarsystem. However, their discovery poses important questions about the effects of such planets onthe presence of habitable planets. To date only one extrasolar planet—HD 209458b—has beenobserved to transit a parent star. This project has the potential for a 10-fold increase in thenumber of extrasolar planets for which transits are observed. The South Pole is an excellentlocation to detect such planets because randomly phased transits can most efficiently bedetected during the long winter night. Also, the constant altitude of a stellar field at the poleavoids large daily atmospheric extinction variations, thus allowing for higher photometric




precision and a search for smaller planets.

Specifically, we will establish an automated planet-finding photometer at the South Pole for twoaustral winters. The statistics of planetary systems of nearby solar-type stars would indicate thatabout 10 to 15 extrasolar planets should be detected. There is also the possibility of findinglower mass planets that have not previously been detectable. Combining the transit results(which give the size of the planet) with Doppler velocity measurements (which give the planetarymass) will allow the planetary density to be determined, thus indicating whether the planet is agas giant like Jupiter, an ice giant like Uranus, or a rocky planet like the Earth. These data willprovide basic observational information that is vital to theoretical models of planetary structureand formation.

Dr. John E. Carlstrom University of Chicago Astronomy and Astrophysics [email protected] http://astro.uchicago.edu/dasi



A-373-S NSF/OPP 00-94541Station: South Pole StationRPSC POC: Charles KaminskiResearch Site(s): South Pole StationDates in Antarctica: Early November to mid February

Degree Angular Scale Interferometer (DASI)

Degree Angular Scale Interferometer (DASI)


John E. Carlstrom . John K. Cartwright . Allan Day . John

Kovac . Erik M. Leitch . Robert J. Pernic . Clement Pryke

Research Objectives: Researchers plan to continue cosmological observations with the degreeangular scale interferometer (DASI) which was first deployed at the Amundsen–Scott South PoleStation during the 1999–2000 austral summer. DASI provides continuous high-qualitymeasurements of the cosmic microwave background (CMB) radiation anisotropy over the criticalrange of angular scales spanning the first three acoustic peaks in the CMB power spectrum. Thedata are transferred daily to the University of Chicago, where analysis is keeping pace with thedata rate. Plans are to publish the resulting power spectrum by the end of the year.

During the next austral winter, researchers will use DASI to measure the currently undetectedpolarization of the CMB anisotropy. The measurements will provide a critical test of the standardtheory of the early universe. The observations will use full Stokes parameters, allowing ameasurement of the cross-correlation of total intensity and polarization anisotropy. Project teammembers will construct new receiver components to reconfigure DASI from 30 giga-Hertz (GHz)to 100 GHz for intensity and polarization measurements of the fine-scale CMB anisotropy power


http://astro.uchicago.edu/dasi

spectrum. These new capabilities will allow detailed observations of the Sunyaev-Zel’dovichEffect (SZE) in nearby galaxy clusters and allow SZE surveys from massive clusters.

These proposed efforts complement other ongoing and planned CMB experiments withinstruments in Chile and at the South Pole. These three instruments can view the same regionof the sky and will provide detailed power spectra over this angular range, thereby gatheringcrucial data for understanding foreground contamination. Working together, these threeinstruments will allow this essentially unexplored but theoretically important portion of the CMBanisotropy power spectrum to be fully determined.

Outreach and education related to the project will be disseminated and implemented throughestablished structures and mechanisms. These programs, which reach out to local and distantK–12 teachers and students, will use the excitement of exploring our universe to help attractwomen and minorities to science. Graduate and undergraduate education and research will beintegrated into the construction of the instrumentation, as well as the data analysis.

Dr. John E. Carlstrom University of Chicago Astronomy and Astrophysics [email protected]



A-379-S NSF/OPP 01-30612Station: South Pole StationRPSC POC: Charles KaminskiResearch Site(s): South Pole StationDates in Antarctica: Early November to mid February

South Pole observations to test cosmological models


Research Objectives: One of the most important discoveries in cosmology is that apparentlymuch, if not most, of the mass in the Universe is made up not of stars and glowing gas, but ofdark matter, which emits little or no light or other electromagnetic radiation and makes itspresence known only through the gravitational force it exerts on luminous matter. There is someindication that dark matter may in fact not even be baryonic (Baryons are subatomic particlesthat are built from quarks and interact via strong nuclear force). Just what fraction of the mass isin the form of noninteracting nonbaryonic particles is of great interest to cosmologists andphysicists.

The University of Chicago will lead a consortium of six institutions to design and use an 10-meter off-axis telescope at Amundsen-Scott South Pole Station to survey galaxy clusters. Thissurvey will allow us to study integrated cluster abundance and its red shift evolution and will giveus precise cosmological constraints that are completely independent of those from supernovadistance and cosmic microwave background (CMB) anisotropy measurements.

Measuring the mass in baryons along with the total mass in a region of the Universe that couldbe considered a fair sample would provide a crucial direct determination of the dark matter


content. In recent years, just such a test-bed has been found in massive clusters of galaxies,which contain large amounts of gas (baryons) in the form of a highly ionized gas atmosphere thatemits x rays. Nearly all of the baryons in the clusters are believed to be in the hot phase(millions of degrees), and so it is likely that we are truly measuring the baryonic mass in thecluster.

In addition to emitting x rays, the hot cluster gas also scatters CMB radiation. This scattering,called the Sunyaev-Zel’dovich Effect (SZE), is measurable using radio telescopes. The SZE isimportant to the study of cosmology and the CMB for two main reasons:

+ The observed hotspots created by the kinetic effect will distort the power spectrum of CMBanisotropies. These need to be separated from primary anisotropies in order to probe inflationproperties.

+ The thermal SZE can be measured and combined with x-ray observations to determine thevalues of cosmological parameters, in particular the Hubble constant.

Dr. Judd A. Case Saint Mary's College of California Department of Biology [email protected]



G-061-E NSF/OPP 00-03844Station: Special ProjectRPSC POC: John EvansResearch Site(s): Vega Island field camp (via R/V Laurence M. Gould)Dates in Antarctica: Late November to late December

Evolution and biogeography of Late Cretaceous vertebrates fromthe James Ross Basin, Antarctic Peninsula



Jennifer Roberts . John Foster Sawyer . Marcelo Reguero .Judd A. Case . Allen J. Kihm . James E. Martin . Robert W.

Meredith . Amanda C. Person . Jennifer Roberts . Wayne

Thompson . Wade L. Winters

Research Objectives: We plan to investigate the Late Mesozoic vertebrate paleontology of theJames Ross Basin. The Campanian through the Maastrichtian Ages (80 to 65 million years ago)are important in the history of vertebrate biogeography (dispersals and separations due tomoving landmasses) and evolution between Antarctica and the rest of the SouthernHemisphere. Moreover, the dispersal of terrestrial vertebrates such as dinosaurs and marsupialmammals from North America to Antarctica and beyond to Australia via Patagonia and theAntarctic Peninsula, as well as the dispersal of modern birds from Antarctica northward, areunresolved questions in paleontology. These dispersals include vertebrates in marine settingsas well. Both widely distributed and localized marine reptile species have been identified in


Antarctica, creating questions about their dispersal in conjunction with terrestrial animals.

The Weddellian Paleobiogeographic Province extends from Patagonia through the AntarcticPeninsula and western Antarctica to Australia and New Zealand. Within this province lie thedispersal routes for interchanges of vertebrates between South America and Madagascar andIndia, and also Australia. On the basis of our previous work, we theorize that an isthmusbetween more northern South America and the Antarctic craton brought typical North Americandinosaurs, such as hadrosaurs (duck-billed dinosaurs) and presumably marsupials travelingoverland while marine reptiles swam along coastal waters, to Antarctica in the late Cretaceous.This region also served as the cradle for the evolution, if not the origin, of groups of modernbirds, and the evolution of typical Southern Hemisphere plants.

To confirm and expand on these hypotheses, we will continue our investigations into lateCretaceous marine and terrestrial deposits in the James Ross Basin. We have previouslyrecovered the following vertebrates from these sedimentary deposits: plesiosaur and mosasaurmarine reptiles; plant-eating dinosaurs; a meat-eating dinosaur; and a variety of modern birdgroups, including shorebirds, wading birds, and lagoonal birds.

Our research will result in important insights about the evolution and geographic dispersal ofseveral vertebrate species. We will collaborate with scientists from the Instituto AntárticoArgentino and with vertebrate paleontologists from the Museo de La Plata, both in the field andat our respective institutions in Argentina and in the United States.

Dr. Teresa K. Chereskin University of California San Diego Scripps Institution of Oceanography [email protected] http://tryfan.ucsd.edu


Oceans & Climate Dr. Bernhard Lettau Program Manager

O-317-L NSF/OPP 98-16226Station: R/V Laurence M. GouldRPSC POC: Todd JohnsonResearch Site(s): USAP research vessel cruise tracksDates in Antarctica: Instruments operate year-round

Shipboard acoustic Doppler current profiling aboard the researchvessel Laurence M. Gould

Currents from an April 2000 crossing of DrakePassage. Velocity vectors are colored according toocean temperature. Courtesy of Teresa Chereskin.

Deploying TeamMembers: Teresa K. Chereskin . Yueng-Djern Lenn

Research Objectives: Currents in the Southern Ocean have a profound influence on theworld's oceans, and therefore upon global temperature and the planet's ecosystem. Yet someremote regions receive little scientific attention. Using Doppler technology (sound-wavetransmission and reflection), this project is exploring upper ocean current velocities. Researchersare building a quality-controlled data set in one such sparsely sampled and remote region, whichnonetheless appears to play a significant role in global ocean circulation. They will develop andmaintain a shipboard acoustic Doppler current profiler (ADCP) program on board the USAPresearch vessel Laurence M. Gould (R/V LMG).

Part of the long-term science goal is to characterize the temporal and spatial velocity structurein the Southern Ocean. This entails measuring the seasonal and annual changes in upper oceancurrents within the Drake Passage and then combining this information with similar temperatureobservations to see how the heat exchange varies and how it drives upper ocean currents.


http://tryfan.ucsd.edu/

For five years, this project's ADCP and TSG (thermosalinograph) instruments have beeninstalled on the R/V LMG. During each cruise, data is collected and transmitted to the homeinstitution. Shipboard electronics technicians and computer support staff maintain and monitorthe systems.

Mr. Christopher A. Cokinos Utah State University [email protected]



W-223-M NSF/OPP .Station: McMurdo StationRPSC POC: Elaine HoodResearch Site(s): McMurdo Station, LaPaz Icefield, Allan Hills, Elephant Moraine, BeardmoreGlacierDates in Antarctica: Early December to early February

The fallen sky: Eccentrics and scientists in pursuit of shootingstars

The fallen sky: Eccentrics and scientists in pursuit ofshooting stars: Field work with Antarctic Search forMeteorites (ANSMET) main party and recon team

Deploying TeamMembers: Christopher A. Cokinos

Research Objectives: Chris Cokinos has a contract with Tarcher/Putnam to publish a bookcombining science, folklore, history and personal narrative showing the importance ofmeteorites, our fascination with them and the poetry of encountering them—and the true storiesabout those who become obsessed by rocks from space.

Mr. Cokinos has traveled in the U.S., France, Germany, and Greenland gathering information forthis book, retracing the steps of amateur meteorite hunters, interviewing scientists about thelatest developments in meteoritics, and seeing how these rocks can inspire humans to meditateon the origins of life on Earth and the effects of cosmic impacts.

Mr. Cokinos will work with Dr. Ralph Harvey’s Antarctic Search for Meteorites project(ANSMET), G-058-M and G-057-M.


Dr. Laurie B. Connell The University of Maine School of Marine Sciences [email protected]



B-019-M NSF/OPP 01-25611Station: McMurdo StationRPSC POC: Patricia JacksonResearch Site(s): Taylor Valley, Labyrinth, McMurdo StationDates in Antarctica: Mid November to mid February

Yeasts in the antarctic Dry Valleys: Biological role, distribution,and evolution

Sampling site in the Taylor Valley withphotomicrograph of yeasts grown from a soil sample(inset). Photo by Scott Craig.


Laurie B. Connell . Scott D. Craig . Regina S. Redman .Russell J. Rodriguez . Barbara Shulz . Amy Stoyles

Research Objectives: The soil community of the antarctic polar desert comprises few endemicspecies of bacteria, fungi, and invertebrates. Both filamentous and single-cell fungi have beenisolated from a diversity of antarctic soil types, but only yeasts appear to be endemic to the polardesert soils. Although their ecological role in antarctic soils is undefined, yeasts may be theprincipal taxa synthesizing the sterols required by soil invertebrates. In addition, yeasts may beinvolved in accumulating and mobilizing growth-limiting nutrients such as phosphorus into thepolar desert food web. Although yeasts have been well described in agricultural and industrialsystems, little is known about their ecological role.

This multidisciplinary, collaborative research will characterize the role(s) soil yeasts play in theMcMurdo Dry Valley ecosystem in order to better understand polar deserts and other extremeenvironments, as well as provide a foundation for incorporating yeasts into biogeochemicalmodels of temperate environments. Soil microbiota mediate most processes such as


decomposition, soil respiration, uptake and fixation of micro- and macronutrients, anddetoxification of heavy metals and serve as major global carbon sinks. The complexity of soilcommunities in temperate regions poses difficulties in studying the relationships between bioticand abiotic parameters, and the factors controlling populations of soil microbiota remain poorlyunderstood. The extreme climate and relatively simple community structure of the continentalantarctic desert lend themselves to such studies.

Researchers will correlate the abundance and distribution of yeasts in polar desert soils withphysical and chemical soil properties. Several physiological parameters will be explored in vitroto develop a basis for understanding the functional role(s) these organisms might play. Sterolssynthesized by McMurdo Dry Valley soil yeasts, as well as their ability to survive multiple freeze-thaw cycles, will be characterized. The capacity of indigenous antarctic yeasts to use, competefor, and store phosphorus will be ascertained. The evolution of dry valley yeasts will beaddressed by determining intra- and intervalley relatedness patterns based on DNA sequence.

Both soil samples and extracted DNA will be shared with other interested laboratories.Moreover, students from middle school (Biolab Inc.) through college (University of Maine) will begiven the opportunity to collaborate on this project, as well as to develop their own projects.

Mr. Lawrence (Larry) J.Conrad [email protected]



W-224-M NSF/OPP .Station: McMurdo StationRPSC POC: Elaine HoodResearch Site(s): Ross Island, Wright Valley, Taylor Valley, Mount Erebus, Royal SocietyRange, McMurdo StationDates in Antarctica: Late August to late February

Field guide to antarctic features: McMurdo Sound region

Field Guide to Antarctic Features: McMurdo SoundRegion

Deploying TeamMembers: Ann Hawthorne

Research Objectives: This project will observe and photograph named geographic features fora historical gazetteer of the McMurdo region. Photographer Ann Hawthorne, historian-geographer Larry Conrad, and a mountaineer will travel on the surface to photograph as manyas 1,500 features in the area from Ross Island to the polar plateau and from the NordenskjoldIce Tongue to the Koettlitz Névé.

The team will locate the positions of photographs taken on the area’s initial exploration by Scottand Shackleton and take new photographs from the same positions. The gazetteer will bepublished in print and digitally.

Two team members and a mountaineer will travel via ski-doo through historical land areas inVictoria Land and then by foot through the McMurdo Dry Valleys. Twenty hours of dedicatedhelicopter support is required for laying caches and team member relocations.


Dr. Howard B. Conway University of Washington Department of Geophysics [email protected] http://www.ess.washington.edu/Surface/Glaciology/



I-209-M NSF/OPP 00-87345Station: McMurdo StationRPSC POC: Curt LaBombardResearch Site(s): Byrd Surface CampDates in Antarctica: Early January to early February

Western divide WAISCORES site selection

2002-03 camp near the prospective drill site near thedivide between the Ross and Amundsen Sea drainagesystems. Photo by Erin Pettit.


Howard B. Conway . Maurice Conway . Kenichi Matsuoka .Erin Pettit . Ed Waddington

Research Objectives: The West Antarctic Ice Cores (WAISCORES) community has identifiedthe western divide, between the Ross embayment and the Amundsen Sea, as the region for thenext deep-ice core. The Ice Core Working Group (ICWG) has developed a document(WAISCORES: Science and Implementation Plan, 2000) that outlines the objectives of thedrilling and the physical and chemical properties the core must have to achieve those objectives.

The divide region spans more than 40,000 square kilometers, and preliminary site selectionusing airborne geophysical methods is now underway. This work has identified several potentialdrilling sites where the climate record should be best preserved throughout its long history of icedynamics. Researchers will place a suite of ground-based geophysical measurements to mapspatial variations of iceflow, accumulation rate, internal layering, and ice thickness at two of themost promising sites. The chief investigative tools include:

+ High and low frequency ice-penetrating radar



+ Repeat global positioning system surveys to calculate the present-day surface velocity field

+ Synthetic aperture radar interferometry to calculate the regional velocity field

+ Short firn cores to calculate present-day accumulation rates.

Beyond the initial mapping and interpretation of internal layers and surface velocity, themeasurements will be used to constrain iceflow modeling. In particular, researchers will usethese measurements and models to identify a site that is most likely to satisfy the followingICWG criteria:

+ Minimal disturbance from an iceflow,

+ A record that extends back at least 50,000 years

+ Countable annual layers back 20,000 years.

A fourth criterion (the good preservation of chemical species) will be addressed by otherprojects.

The first criterion (minimal disturbances) will be evident from the patterns of radar-detectedinternal layers. To address the other two, researchers will use the measurements as input fortime-dependent iceflow and temperature models that predict depth variations of age, layerthickness, and temperature. The mismatch between the model predictions and the dataeventually recovered from the core will help infer thinning and climate histories for the region, inaddition to yielding an estimate of expected conditions before drilling. The information gatheredwill help guide site selection for the drilling.

Dr. Howard B. Conway University of Washington Department of Geophysics [email protected] http://www.ess.washington.edu/Surface/Glaciology/



I-210-M NSF/OPP 00-87144Station: McMurdo StationRPSC POC: Curt LaBombardResearch Site(s): McMurdo Station, Siple CoastDates in Antarctica: Early November to mid December

Glacial history of Ridge AB

Radar (5MHz) profile across Ridge AB. The bright reflector near 800m depthis the bed. Radar-detected internal layers, which can be interpreted asisochrones, are generally continuous but disturbed.

Deploying Team Members: Ginny Catania . Howard B. Conway . Maurice Conway . Charles F.Raymond

Research Objectives: Scientists do not fully understand how the configuration and activity of the drainagesystem of the West Antarctic Ice Sheet are changing. For the following reasons, Ridge AB constitutes a keyarea for studying this issue:

+ While previous studies of inter–ice stream ridges in West Antarctica have revealed much about the historyof the surrounding ice streams, there remains an information gap in the southern sector of the ice sheet. Webelieve that a targeted study of Ridge AB will reveal new information about recent changes in theconfiguration and activity of ice streams A and B.

+ Geologic evidence from Reedy Glacier indicates that the ice near Ridge AB was about 700 meters (m)thicker during the last glacial maximum. This helps constrain the magnitude of thinning that has occurredthrough the Holocene and opens the possibility of linking the history of the West Antarctic Ice Sheet to thegeologic record in the Transantarctic Mountains.

We will begin by using high- and low-frequency radar systems, global positioning system surveying methods,and short (20-m) firn cores to map spatial variations of internal layering, buried crevasses, surface velocity,and accumulation rate. We will then put these diagnostic measurements into ice-flow models to infer the



glacial history of Ridge AB and the surrounding ice streams. We will interpret this history in the context of thehistories that are emerging from the other inter–ice stream ridges, as well as the geologic evidence fromReedy and other outlet glaciers in the Transantarctic Mountains. These explorations and analyses willenhance scientific understanding of the evolution of the drainage system of the West Antarctic Ice Sheet.

Dr. Kurt Cuffey University of California Berkeley Department of Geography [email protected]



I-161-M NSF/OPP 01-25579Station: McMurdo StationRPSC POC: Melissa RiderResearch Site(s): McMurdo Station, Taylor GlacierDates in Antarctica: Mid October to early February

Dynamics and climatic response of the Taylor Glacier system.

Dynamics and Climatic Response of the TaylorGlacier System.


John W. Sanders . Sarah Aciego . Andrew Bliss . Kurt Cuffey .Jeffrey L. Kavanaugh . David L. Morse

Research Objectives: Taylor Glacier drains from Taylor Dome eastward and terminates inTaylor Valley at Lake Bonney. This glacier connects the Taylor Dome region, studied extensivelyin the early-mid 1990s, to the Taylor Valley ecosystem. Understanding the flow and response ofthis system is essential for interpreting the glacial geologic record in the southern Dry Valleys,and for understanding long-term changes in the Taylor Valley ecosystem physical environment(especially Lake Bonney).

This project's objective is to understand the Taylor Glacier: how it flows, and how it responds toclimatic changes. Project team members will build a comprehensive set of measurements ofsurface velocity and ablation rates along Taylor Glacier, and also to map subglacial topography.The proposed work is an outgrowth of work done by the New Zealand Program in the mid-1980s(Robinson) and by the University of Washington in 1992-93. Researchers on this projectparticipated in that effort, and in that context completed cross-valley surveys of velocity andbasal topography at several locations. In this project, they seek to vastly increase this data set


for use in a modeling program to understand climatic response of the Taylor Glacier system.Surface velocities, strain rates, ablation rates, ice thickness, and subglacial topography will bemeasured.

Dr. Ian W. Dalziel University of Texas Austin Institute for Geophysics [email protected]



G-087-M NSF/OPP 00-03619Station: McMurdo StationRPSC POC: Patricia JacksonResearch Site(s): Byrd Surface CampDates in Antarctica: November

A GPS network to determine crustal motions in the bedrock of theWest Antarctic Ice Sheet (WAIS)



Michael Bevis . Ian W. Dalziel . Robert Smalley Jr . JimSpencer

Research Objectives: Motion in the bedrock that underlies the West Antarctic Ice Sheet issuspected from rifting, active volcanism and uncertainties in global plate circuits, but it isunconstrained. Without reliable data - on both tectonic and ice-induced crustal motions-we willnever be able to fully comprehend the ice sheet's past, present, and future dynamics. Withoutthat knowledge, we can neither develop reliable global change scenarios for the future noraccurately factor the Antarctic region into global plate movements. Currently, permanent globalpositioning system (GPS) networks that measure bedrock movement are established only on thefringe of the West Antarctic Ice Sheet; they cannot provide the data that are needed forunderstanding of subglacial volcanism, active tectonics, and ice streaming.

This project is focused on establishing baseline, long-term, reliable geodetic measurements ofthe crustal motion in the bedrock beneath the West Antarctic Ice Sheet. To obtain them, we arebuilding a West Antarctica GPS Network (WAGN) of at least 15 GPS sites on nunataks across


the West Antarctic interior-an area comparable to the area from the Rocky Mountains to thePacific coast-over 3 years, beginning in the 2001-2002 austral summer.

The first season, we initiated the WAGN network and tested the precision and velocities atcritical control sites along the interior Transantarctic margin of the East Antarctic craton. Thesecond season we monumented and made initial measurements on sites at the base of theAntarctic Peninsula, and on the Ellsworth-Whitmore mountains crustal block. The embryonicnetwork will begin to fill a major gap in GPS coverage by looking for potential bedrockmovements. If crustal motions are relatively slow, meaningful results will only begin to emergeover the next 5 years or so. Once it is permanently established, however, the network shouldyield increasingly meaningful results. Indeed, the slower the rates turn out to be, the moreimportant it is to start measuring early.

West Antarctic Ice Sheet bedrock is so scattered and remote that to erect a continuous string ofpermanent GPS stations is unrealistic with presently available technology and logistic support.Instead, we are following the ''multimodal occupation strategy' (MOST), which entails rovingreceivers (based in permanent monuments set in solid rock outcrops) in place for only a shorttime at each site, providing data that can be ranged against continuous data acquired frompermanent GPS stations elsewhere. Each of these "bases" can be converted in the future to apermanent, autonomous station when more logistics and satellite data linkage throughout WestAntarctica are in place. When detectable motions occur, we can reoccupy the most critical sites,obtain more reliable velocities, and make decisions about reoccupying the entire network.

We expect the results of this project to establish important early indicators of crustal platedynamics beneath the West Antarctic Ice Sheet. As scientists take these into account in refiningtheir models, future measurements and a time-series of the geodetic data should graduallyproduce a more constrained picture of subglacial dynamics for the West Antarctic Ice Sheet-thatis, plate rotations and both elastic and viscoelastic motions caused by deglaciation and ice-masschanges.

Dr. Thomas A. Day Arizona State University Tempe Department of Plant Biology [email protected]



B-003-P NSF/OPP 02-30579Station: Palmer StationRPSC POC: Rob EdwardsResearch Site(s): Palmer StationDates in Antarctica: Early December to early February

Response of terrestrial ecosystems along the Antarctic Peninsulato a changing climate

A graduate student measures the photosynthesis ofAntarctic hairgrass near Palmer Station. Photo byThomas A. Day.


Thomas A. Day . Jeffrey M. Klopatek . Ji-Hyung Park .Christopher T. Ruhland . Sarah N. Strauss

Research Objectives: The striking increases in air temperatures and ultraviolet-B radiation(UV-B) documented along the west coast of the Antarctic Peninsula over the past 50 yearsrepresent a profound climatic change, arguably larger than that experienced by any other regionon Earth during this time. Along with these well-documented changes, annual precipitation andthe depth of the winter snow pack also appear to be increasing along the peninsula. These rapidchanges in climate provide a unique opportunity to examine the effects of climate change onterrestrial ecosystems.

Building on past work that focused on the impact of warming and UV-B on terrestrial vascularplants on the peninsula, we will examine how climate change alters nutrient (carbon andnitrogen) pools and cycling among plants, litter, and soils in vascular-plant-dominatedcommunities, with the overall goal of predicting long-term effects on plant productivity. We willuse two complementary approaches.


In the first approach, we will study shorter term responses to climate change by manipulatingtemperature, water availability, and UV-B exposure of vascular-plant microcosms over threegrowing seasons. We will assess how these manipulations influence plant growth and primaryproductivity, carbon dioxide fluxes, litter quality and decomposition, pools and turnover rates ofcarbon and nitrogen, and the structure of soil microbial and arthropod communities. Theserealistic environmental manipulations will allow us to accurately assess the effects of differentfuture warming scenarios, as well as the effects of solar UV-B.

In the second approach, we will examine longer term responses to warming by measuring poolsof carbon and nitrogen in plants, litter, and soils in plant communities along transects thatrepresent gradients of long-term temperature regimes. Analyzing the results from short-termwarming manipulations in the context of patterns found along these gradients will make itpossible to develop a conceptual model of warming impacts over time.

The broader impacts of this project include

+ Recruiting and training undergraduate students from underrepresented minorities;

+ Disseminating findings to the general public; and

+ Contributing to society at large by improving our understanding of how climate change affectsplant productivity and ecosystem carbon storage, as well as whether ecosystem responses toclimate change will mitigate or promote continued buildups of greenhouse gases.

Dr. Arthur L. DeVries University of Illinois Urbana Molecular and Integrative PhysiologyDepartment [email protected]



B-005-M NSF/OPP 02-31006Station: McMurdo StationRPSC POC: Melissa RiderResearch Site(s): McMurdo Station, Britina Island, McMurdo SoundDates in Antarctica: Late August to mid February

Antifreeze proteins in antarctic fishes: Integrated studies offreezing environments and organismal freezing avoidance, protein

structure-function and mechanism, genes, and evolution

Antifreeze proteins in antarctic fishes: Integratedstudies of freezing environments and organismalfreezing avoidance, protein structure-function andmechanism, genes, and evolution


Bev Dickson . Chi-Hing C. Cheng-De Vries . Arthur L. De Vries

. Clive Evans . Philip E. Forte . Kevin Hoefling . Pascale Otis

Research Objectives: Despite temperatures that can dip below 0°C, antarctic waters provide alife sustaining environment for a number of fish species. How are they able to take the mostfrigid waters on earth through their gills without themselves freezing? A primary reason are theso-called antifreeze proteins, an adaptation found in a number of polar and subpolar species.The Southern Ocean provides the ideal laboratory and molecular biology the ideal probe tostudy this phenomenon.

This group studies the physiology of fish and larvae from these waters to see how ice grows inbiological tissues -- a crystallization process called nucleation -- and how antifreezeglycoproteins (AFGP) inhibit it. The antifreeze function has enabled the antarctic notothenioidsto colonize their frigid habitats very successfully. These researchers are mounting


comprehensive multidisciplinary analyses of this adaptation at the level of the gene as well asthe protein.

This season, deploying team members will:

+ Investigate the relationship between the severity of different antarctic marine environments(McMurdo vs. Peninsula) on notothenoid fish antifreeze capacity and function.

+ Characterize the antifreeze capacity at both the gene and protein levels of representativespecies from the five antarcticfamilies of notothenoid fish.

+ Characterize the evolution of AFGP gene families and the suborder Notothenoidei usingmolecular and cytogenetics techniques.

Dr. Terry Deshler University of Wyoming Department of Atmospheric Science [email protected]



A-131-M NSF/OPP 02-30424Station: McMurdo StationRPSC POC: Charles KaminskiResearch Site(s): McMurdo StationDates in Antarctica: Mid August to late October

Measurements addressing quantitative ozone loss, polarstratospheric cloud nucleation, and large polar stratospheric

particles during austral winter and spring

Measurements addressing quantitative ozone loss,polar stratospheric cloud nucleation, and large polarstratospheric particles during austral winter and spring


Terry Deshler . Guido Di Donfrancesco . Michael Lampert .Paola Massoli . Jennifer Mercer . Maria Luisa Moriconi .Bradford A. Range . Marcel Snels

Research Objectives: The stratospheric ozone layer provides life on Earth with an essentialshield from solar ultraviolet radiation. The discovery in 1985 of large ozone losses aboveAntarctica each spring took the world and the scientific community by surprise. Since that time,the cause of this unprecedented ozone loss has been determined to be chlorine compoundsinteracting on the surfaces of clouds that formed the previous winter [polar stratospheric clouds(PSCs)]. This interaction helps explain why ozone depletion is so severe in the polar regions.However, many details must still be clarified before we can comprehensively model thestratospheric ozone balance. An international experiment to address some of these details isplanned for June through October 2003.


This experiment will compare balloon-borne ozone observations from nine antarctic stations(South Pole, General Belgrano II, Dumont d'Urville, Vicecomodoro Marambio, Georg vonNeumayer, Rothera, Syowa, Davis, and McMurdo) with several three-dimensional chemicaltransport models. Balloon releases will be coordinated to sample air parcels previously sampledat another location. Comparing the changes within these air parcels will provide an excellent testof our understanding of stratospheric chemistry as represented in the models.

Observations from McMurdo Station will also add to our database of annual vertical ozoneprofiles and will be completed as stratospheric chlorine levels are peaking to provide a baselineto detect the first signs of ozone recovery. In addition to these ozone observations, we willextend our observations of PSCs. We use an optical radar (lidar, light detection and ranging) tostudy PSCs, stratospheric aerosol, and the thermal behavior and dynamics of the atmosphereabove McMurdo Station. Continuous lidar observations provide insight into these PSCs, morespecifically, estimates of the size and concentration of the particles that form in them andestimates of the surfaces available for heterogeneous chemistry (the activation of chlorine so itcan destroy ozone), of the rates of denitrification and dehydration, and of particle composition.

Measurements of vertical ozone profiles are archived in the database of the Network for theDetection of Stratospheric Change, a global set of high-quality remote-sounding researchstations for observing and understanding the physical and chemical state of the atmosphere(see www.ndsc.ws on the Internet). This project represents a collaboration between Italianresearchers and the University of Wyoming.

Dr. William Detrich Northeastern University [email protected]



B-039-N NSF/OPP 01-32032Station: RV/IB Nathaniel B. PalmerRPSC POC: Don MichaelsonResearch Site(s): Weddell SeaDates in Antarctica: Mid May to mid July

ICEFISH 2003: International collaborative expedition to collect andstudy fish indigenous to sub-antarctic habitats


Research Objectives: Notothenioids are a major group of fish in the Southern Ocean. Theancestral notothenioid fish stock of Antarctica probably arose as a sluggish, bottom-dwellingperciform species that evolved some 40 to 60 million years ago in the then temperate shelfwaters of the antarctic continent. The grounding of the ice sheet on the continental shelf andchanging trophic conditions may have eliminated taxonomically diverse late Eocene fauna andinitiated the original diversification of notothenioids. On the high antarctic shelf today,notothenioids dominate the ichthyofauna in terms of species diversity, abundance, and biomass,the latter two at levels of 90 percent to 95 percent. Since the International Geophysical Year of1957–1958, fish biologists from the Antarctic Treaty nations have made impressive progress inunderstanding the notothenioid ichthyofauna of the cold antarctic marine ecosystem. However,integration of this work into the broader marine context has been limited, largely because of lackof access to, and analysis of, specimens of subantarctic notothenioid fish.

The fish of this suborder are critical for a complete understanding of the evolution, populationdynamics, ecophysiology, and ecobiochemistry of their antarctic relatives. Our project willsupport an international, collaborative research cruise to collect and study fish indigenous to


subantarctic habitats. Research topics include systematics and evolutionary studies; life historystrategies and population dynamics; physiological, biochemical, and molecular biologicalinvestigations of major organ and tissue systems; genomic resources for the subantarcticnotothenioids; and ecological studies of transitional benthic invertebrates.

In a world that is experiencing changes in global climate, the loss of biological diversity, and thedepletion of marine fisheries, the antarctic and subantarctic regions and their biota offercompelling natural laboratories for understanding the evolutionary impact of these processes.Our work will contribute to developing a baseline understanding of these sensitive ecosystems,one against which future changes in species distribution and survival can be evaluatedjudiciously.

Dr. Giacomo R. DiTullio University of Charleston [email protected] http://www.cofc.edu/~ditullio/



B-272-M NSF/OPP 02-30513Station: McMurdo StationRPSC POC: Patricia JacksonResearch Site(s): McMurdo StationDates in Antarctica: Early to mid January (McMurdo), mid December to early January (R/VNBP)

Iron and light effects on Phaeocystis antarctica isolates from theRoss Sea



Giacomo R. DiTullio . Nathan S. Garcia . Sarah F. Riseman .Peter Sedwick

Research Objectives: The colonial prymnesiophyte Phaeocystis antarctica is a major bloom-forming alga in antarctic shelf waters, where, together with diatoms, it is considered a keyspecies in regional biogeochemical cycling and ecosystem structure. Iron levels in these watersfall sharply during the mid- to late summer to concentrations that are likely to limit the growth ofphytoplankton, including P. antarctica. However, in contrast to diatoms, very little work has beendone to examine the effects of iron, or the combined effects of iron and irradiance, on thegrowth, physiology, and biochemical composition of P. antarctica. We will collect samples of P.antarctica from the southern Ross Sea and samples grown in semicontinuous batch cultures toinvestigate the effects of iron availability and irradiance on growth rate, cellular iron quota,buoyancy, biogenic sulfur production, pigment content, redox-protein expression, andphotosynthetic efficiency.


http://www.cofc.edu/~ditullio/

Over time scales ranging from seasonal to interannual, P. antarctica is known to have asignificant effect on regional biogeochemical cycles of carbon, nutrient elements, and sulfur inthe Ross Sea. This species may also have played a central role in the inferred basin-scalechanges in biogeochemical cycles linked to glacial-interglacial climatic change. Thus, it isimportant to develop a mechanistic understanding of the factors that control the growth,physiology, and biochemical composition of P. antarctica in order to better understand thebiogeochemical ecology of the Ross Sea and the wider Southern Ocean and possible linkageswith regional and global climate. The data we gather from these laboratory experiments,together with the results of recent and ongoing field and modeling studies, will substantiallyimprove our ability to predict how the antarctic region will be affected by and modulate futureclimate change.

Dr. Peter T. Doran University of Illinois at Chicago Department of Earth and EnvironmentalSciences [email protected] http://tigger.uic.edu/~pdoran/home.htm



B-426-M NSF/OPP 98-10219Station: McMurdo StationRPSC POC: Jessie CrainResearch Site(s): Dry Valleys, Lake Vida, Lake VandaDates in Antarctica: Early November to late December

McMurdo Dry Valleys Long Term Ecological Research (LTER):The role of natural legacy on ecosystem structure and function in

a polar desert

Making holes in the lake ice on Lake Fryxell to collectsamples. Photo by Peter Doren.

Deploying TeamMembers: Phil Allen . Peter T. Doran . Robin Ellwood

Research Objectives: This project is the paleoclimatology, paleoecology, meteorologycomponent of McMurdo LTER. A critical part of the LTER legacy research will be carried out thisseason. The group will extract long sediment cores from the Taylor Valley lakes and analyzingsediment from these cores to directly assess legacy.

These analyses will also tie into another project that extracts paleoclimatic information fromthese sediment cores. This group also oversees the recollection of a sediment additionexperiment (one of the original LTER experiments I) which is resampled by divers every otheryear.


http://tigger.uic.edu/~pdoran/home.htm

Dr. Hugh Ducklow Virginia Institute of Marine Sciences The College of William & Mary [email protected] http://www.icess.ucsb.edu/lter/lter.html



B-045-L/P NSF/OPP 02-17282Station: R/V Laurence M. Gould, PalmerStationRPSC POC: Rob EdwardsResearch Site(s): R/V Laurence M. Gould, Palmer StationDates in Antarctica:

Palmer Long Term Ecological Research Project (LTER): Climate,ecological migration, and teleconnections in an ice-dominated

environment

Palmer Station, as seen from the Adelie penguincolony on Torgersen Island in Arthur Harbor, AnversIsland, Anatrctica. Photo by Hugh Ducklow.


Hugh Ducklow . Nikki Middaugh . Anne Mills . Helen Quinby .Shana Rapoport . Lauren Rogers . Jennifer Salerno . MaryTurnipseed

Research Objectives: The Palmer Long-Term Ecological Research Project (PAL LTER) seeksto understand the structure and function of the antarctic marine and terrestrial ecosystem in thecontext of physical forcing by seasonal to interannual variability in atmospheric and sea-icedynamics, as well as long-term climate change. The PAL LTER grid is designed to study marineand terrestrial food webs consisting principally of diatom primary producers, the dominantherbivore antarctic krill, Euphausia superba, and the apex predator Adélie penguin, Pygoscelisadeliae. An attenuated microbial food web, consisting of planktonic bacteria and Archaea andbacterivorous protozoa, is also a focus of study.



This project monitors western Antarctic Peninsula ecosystems annually over a grid ofoceanographic stations and seasonally at Palmer Station. The extent and variability of sea iceaffect changes at all trophic levels. In recent years, sea ice has diminished in response to ageneral regional warming. A long-term population decline of ice-dependent Adélie penguinsprovides a clear example of the impact of this trend in the Palmer region. Adélie populations atthe five major rookeries located near Palmer Station and studied for the past 30 years have allshown a gradual decrease in numbers. The western Antarctic Peninsula, the site of PAL-LTERresearch, runs perpendicular to a strong climatic gradient between the cold, dry continentalregime to the south, characteristic of the interior, and the warm, moist maritime regime to thenorth. More maritime conditions appear to be replacing the original polar ecosystem in thenorthern part of the peninsula as the climatic gradient shifts southward. To date, this shiftappears to be matched by an ecosystem shift along the peninsula, as evidenced by declines inAdélie penguins, which require longer snow-cover seasons.

We hypothesize that ecosystem migration is most clearly manifested by changes in upper-levelpredators (penguins) and certain polar fishes in predator-foraging environments because theselonger-lived species integrate recent climate trends and because individual species are moresensitive indicators than aggregated functional groups. We hypothesize that in the years ahead,analogous modifications will also become evident at lower trophic levels, although thesechanges are likely to be seen only through long-term studies of ecosystem boundaries along thepeninsula.

By studying extant food webs in both the marine and terrestrial environments, we will continue toinvestigate ecosystem changes at lower trophic levels; changes in response to continued,dramatic warming; and shifts in the poleward climatic gradient along the western AntarcticPeninsula.

Dr. Timothy D. Dye University of Rochester Division of Public Health Practice [email protected]



B-027-M NSF/OPP 01-25893Station: McMurdo StationRPSC POC: Jessie CrainResearch Site(s): McMurdo StationDates in Antarctica: Early October to late November

Culture and health in Antarctica


Deploying TeamMembers: Nancy P. Chin . Ann M. Dozier . Timothy D. Dye

Research Objectives: The emergence of a long-term population in space will, in many ways,parallel the emergence of a sustained population in Antarctica, where development hasexpanded beyond the initial population of scientific and military personnel and now includessupport staff and construction personnel. Experts speculate that a similar mix of residents mayemerge as space populations develop. Such organizational and cultural merging in restrictedenvironments undoubtedly creates new cultural landscapes (ethnoscapes) that could influencehealth and health behavior. Because of the extreme environmental circumstances, health risksand health care are particularly important. The study of cultural emergence in Antarctica as ananalog to space could prove useful in the development of models of health and health behaviorin an isolated confined environment (ICE) and could help planners better structure theseenvironments to reduce health risks and identify factors that predispose people to those risks.

This group will

+ Model the emergence of cultural stages in ICE ethnoscapes as experienced by both short-


and long-term populations,

+ Identify those elements of ICE ethnoscapes that are specific to an individual season and thosethat are repeated,

+ Relate how the temporal and content stages of ICE ethnoscapes interact with risk, behavior,and injury, and

+ Demonstrate the utility of electronic and distance-based assisted ethnography in the conductof social research in ICE environments of Antarctica, and possibly in space.

Researchers will begin with key informant interviews and focus groups conducted throughout theUnited States with people who have spent at least one season on the ice within the past threeyears. The purpose is to elucidate the behaviors, risks, and health events that face residents,particularly in the emergence of ethnoscapes. During the next phase, researchers will reside inAntarctica for an extended period and conducting onsite participant observation and interviewsat two different sites. This phase will include the Self-Disclosure Technique (SDT), ananthropological method for identifying the conceptual structure of a cultural event. SDT will beused to describe cultural dynamics in occupational, recreational, spiritual, and other groupactivities. Fieldwork will involve both short- and long-term residence. The data will be processed,and models will be tested for validity with informants on the ice.

This research could contribute to the development of screening procedures for long-termresidence in ICEs and context-sensitive explanatory models of culture and injury risk, as well asillustrate the utility of distance-based ethnography.

Dr. Hajo Eicken University of Alaska Fairbanks Geophysical Institute [email protected]



O-253-M NSF/OPP 01-26007Station: McMurdo StationRPSC POC: Charles KaminskiResearch Site(s): McMurdo SoundDates in Antarctica: Late December to late January

Measurements and improved parameterizations of the thermalconductivity and heat flow through first-year sea ice

Meg Smith and Lars Backstrom prepare to drill a seaice core off the Erebus Glacier tongue near aninstrumented sea ice site that this group studied jointlywith colleagues from the New Zealand AntarcticProgram. Photo by Hajo Eicken.


Lars G. Backstrom . Hajo Eicken . Martin O. Jeffries . KimMorris

Research Objectives: The sea-ice cover in the polar oceans strongly modifies ocean-atmosphere heat transfer. Most important, the ice cover thermally insulates the ocean, with sea-ice thermal conductivity determining the magnitude of the heat flow for a given ice-temperaturegradient. Despite its importance (second only to ice albedo), knowledge of sea-ice thermalconductivity is limited to highly idealized models developed several decades ago. Generalcirculation models (GCMs) and large-scale sea-ice models currently include overly simplisticparameterizations of ice thermal conductivity that are likely to contribute significantly to errors inestimating ice production rates.

Researchers will carry out a set of field measurements from which the thermal conductivity offirst-year sea ice will be derived as a function of ice microstructure, temperature, salinity, andother parameters. Measurements will be carried out by letting thermistor arrays freeze into theMcMurdo Sound fast ice, which represents an ideal natural laboratory for this type of


measurement. To minimize errors and identify the most robust technique, the research team willcollaborate with colleagues from New Zealand and compare different methodologies formeasurement and analysis. They will also assess the impact of ice microstructure (spatialdistribution of brine, crystal sizes) and convective processes on the effective rate of heattransfer.

Antarctic data will be compared with arctic thermal conductivity data sets to assess regionalcontrasts and the impact of different physical processes on heat flow and to arrive at acomprehensive, improved parameterization of ice thermal conductivity for large-scalesimulations and GCMs. This component of the work will involve ice-growth modeling andcollaboration with the Sea-Ice Model Intercomparison Project Team established under theauspices of the World Climate Research Program. This research will advance and improve

+ The understanding of the processes and parameters controlling heat transfer and the thermalconductivity of first-year sea ice

+ Techniques for deriving thermal conductivity and heat flow data from thermistor arrays

+ The understanding of sea-ice processes and heat flow through the ice cover in McMurdoSound

+ Parameterizations of thermal conductivity for use in large-scale and high-resolution one-dimensional simulations

+ The representation of first-year ice thermal properties (both antarctic and arctic) in GCMs.

Dr. Fred Eisele Georgia Institute of Technology School of Earth and Atmospheric sciences

[email protected]



O-176-M/S NSF/OPP 02-30246Station: McMurdo Station, South PoleStationRPSC POC: Charles KaminskiResearch Site(s): McMurdo Station, South Pole StationDates in Antarctica: Late November to late December (McMurdo), mid November to midJanuary (South Pole)

Antarctic Troposphere Chemistry Investigation (ANTCI)



Anne Case . Steve Brooks . Jack Dibb . Fred Eisele . Daniel

Gottas . Detlev Helmig . Manuel Hutterli . Edward Kosciuch .Joe Mastromarino . Roy Mauldin III . James Roberts . Steven

Sjostedt . David Tan . David Tanner . Mathew Warshawsky

Research Objectives: We will study sulfur chemistry in the antarctic atmosphere to enhanceour understanding of the processes that control tropospheric levels of reactive hydrogenradicals, reactive nitrogen, sulfur, and other trace species for the further purpose of improvingthe climatic interpretation of sulfur-based signals in antarctic ice-core records. Specifically, wewill be making observations of reactive hydrogen radicals, sulfuric acid and its sulfur precursors,and the flux of ultraviolet radiation. The results we derive will lead to a far more comprehensiveunderstanding of antarctic atmospheric chemistry, as well as the factors that influence the levelsand distributions of climate proxy species in antarctic ice cores.


Our major science objectives include

+ Evaluating the processes that control spring and summer levels of reactive radicals in theatmospheric surface layer at the South Pole,

+ Assessing how representative previously obtained South Pole and coastal measurements arein the larger context of polar plateau processes, and

+ Investigating the relative importance of the oxidative processes involved in the coast-to-plateau transport of reduced sulfur and determining the principal chemical transition regions.

Secondary objectives include investigating snow/firn chemical species that undergo extensiveexchange with the atmosphere and assessing the different chemical forms of the trace elementsand their relationships to levels of ozone and other oxidants.

Atmospheric sulfur chemistry is important in climate change because both naturally andanthropogenically emitted sulfur compounds form minute particles in the atmosphere (so-calledaerosols) that reflect solar radiation, produce atmospheric haze and acid rain, and affect ozonedepletion. These sulfate particles may also act as condensation nuclei for water vapor andenhance global cloudiness. The primary natural sources of sulfur are volcanic emissions anddimethylsulfide production by oceanic phytoplankton.

On the millennial time scale, the variability and background level of atmospheric aerosols can bereconstructed from ice cores. It is, however, necessary to understand how the physical andchemical environment of the process affects the relative concentrations of the oxidationproducts that become buried in the ice.

Dr. Masaki Ejiri National Institute of Polar Research Upper Atmosphere Physics [email protected] http://www.isc.nipr.ac.jp



A-117-S NSF/OPP U.S./Japan agreementStation: South Pole StationRPSC POC: Charles KaminskiResearch Site(s): South Pole Station, SkyLabDates in Antarctica: Early to mid November

All-Sky imager at South Pole

Air glow and green aurora taken by the All Sky Imager instrument near-simultaneously. Photo courtesy of National Institute of Polar Research,Japan.

Deploying Team Members: Masaki Ejiri . Masaki Tutsumi . Akira Yukimatsu

Research Objectives: The South Pole is a unique platform for observing aurora during the australwinter. The pole provides a unique vantage point for observing the airglow and to discern thecharacteristics of acoustic gravity waves in the polar region as they vary in altitude and wavelength.The continuous observation available at the South Pole allows researchers to collect data on aurorasthat develop from precipitating low-energy particles entering the magnetosphere from the solar wind:

+ Dayside polar cusp/cleft aurora,

+ Afternoon aurora that are closely associated with the nightside magnetospheric storm/substormactivities,

+ The polar cap aurora, which is dependent on the polarity of the interplanetary magnetic field.

Though data have been acquired at the South Pole since 1965 using a film-based, all-sky camerasystem, newer technology produces digital images and permits automatic processing of large amountsof information. This group uses the all-sky-imager (ASI), a digital CCD imager monitored and controlledby the Japanese NIPR (National Institute of Polar Research).

These international collaborations should enhance knowledge of the magnetosphere, the ionosphereand of upper/middle atmosphere physics. The HF (high frequency) radars at Halley Bay, Sanae, andSyowa Station provide the vector velocity of ionospheric plasma over the South Pole.


http://www.isc.nipr.ac.jp/

These studies should provide further insight into the physics of the magnetosphere, the convection ofplasma in the polar cap, and solar wind effects - specifically dayside auroral structure, nightsidesubstorm effects, and polar-cap arcs.

Dr. Steven D. Emslie University of Northern Carolina,Wilmington University of North Carolina [email protected] http://www.uncwil.edu/tc/AntarcticaLive



B-034-M NSF/OPP 01-25098Station: McMurdo StationRPSC POC: Patricia JacksonResearch Site(s): Cape Adare, Cape Hallett, Terra Nova Bay, McMurdo StationDates in Antarctica: Mid December to mid February

Occupation history and diet of Adélie penguins in the Ross Searegion

An abandoned penguin colony near Australia's CaseyStation before excavation. The mounded concentrationof pebbles stands out from the rest of the naturallandscape and makes these sites easy to identify. Themound was formed after penguins collected pe


Jerzy Smykla . Ed Cavallerano . Larry Coats . Steven D.Emslie

Research Objectives: We will build on previous studies to investigate the occupation historyand diet of Adélie penguins (Pygoscelis adeliae) with excavations of the many abandoned andactive penguin colonies in the Ross Sea region: more specifically, the Victoria Land coast fromCape Adare to Marble Point. Some of these sites have been radiocarbon-dated and indicate thatAdélie penguins have occupied these sites for 13,000 years. The material we will recover, asdemonstrated from previous investigations, will include penguin bones, tissue, and eggshellfragments, as well as abundant remains of prey (fish bones, otoliths, squid beaks) preserved inornithogenic soils (formed from bird guano). These organic remains will be quantified andsubjected to radiocarbon analyses to obtain a colonization history of the penguins in this region.Identification of prey remains in the sediment will allow us to assess penguin diet.

We will collaborate with New Zealand scientists to analyze other data from these sites (ancientDNA) and will interpret past climatic conditions from published ice-core and marine-sediment


http://www.uncwil.edu/tc/AntarcticaLive

records. These data will be used to test the hypothesis that Adélie penguins respond predictablyto climate change, past and present. In addition, we will test the hypothesis that these penguinsalter their diet in accordance with climate, sea-ice conditions, and other marine environmentalvariables along a latitudinal gradient. Graduate and undergraduate students will be involved, anda Web site will be developed to report results and maintain educational interaction betweenproject personnel and students at local middle and high schools in Wilmington, North Carolina.

Dr. Mark J. Engebretson Augsburg College Department of Physics [email protected] http://space.augsburg.edu/ago/antindex.html



A-102-M/S NSF/OPP 02-33169Station: McMurdo Station, South PoleStationRPSC POC: Charles KaminskiResearch Site(s): Arrival Heights, CUSP LaboratoryDates in Antarctica: Instruments operate year-round, early to mid January (project teamdeploys)

Conjugate studies of ultra-low-frequency (ULF) waves andmagnetospheric dynamics using ground-based induction

magnetometers at four high-latitude manned sites


Research Objectives: The Earth's magnetic field arises from its mass and motion around thepolar axis, but it creates a powerful phenomenon at the edge of space known as themagnetosphere, which has been described as a comet-shaped cavity or bubble around theEarth, carved in the solar wind. When that supersonic flow of plasma emanating from the Sunencounters the magnetosphere, the result is a long cylindrical cavity, flowing on the lee side ofthe Earth, fronted by the blunt nose of the planet itself. With the solar wind coming at supersonicspeed, this collision produces a “bow shock” several Earth radii in front of the magnetosphereproper.

One result of this process is fluctuations in the Earth's magnetic field, called micropulsations,which can be measured on time scales between 0.1 second and 1,000 seconds. It is known thatmagnetic variations can significantly affect power grids and pipelines. We plan to usemagnetometers (distributed at high latitudes in both the antarctic and arctic regions) to learn


http://space.augsburg.edu/ago/antindex.html

more about how variations in the solar wind can affect the Earth and manmade systems.

We will study these solar-wind-driven variations and patterns at a variety of locations and overperiods up to a complete solar cycle. Since satellite systems are now continuously observingsolar activity and also monitoring the solar wind, it is becoming feasible to develop models topredict the disruptions caused by such magnetic anomalies. And while our work is gearedspecifically toward a better understanding of the world and the behavior of its manmadesystems, it will also involve space weather prediction.

Dr. Eric Firing University of Hawaii Manoa Department of Oceanography http://currents.soest.hawaii.edu/antarctic/index.html



O-315-N NSF/OPP 98-16226Station: RV/IB Nathaniel B. PalmerRPSC POC: Todd JohnsonResearch Site(s): USAP research vessel cruise tracksDates in Antarctica: Instruments operate year-round

Shipboard acoustic Doppler current profiling aboard the researchvessel Nathaniel B. Palmer

Currents from an April 2000 crossing of DrakePassage. Velocity vectors are colored according toocean temperature. Courtesy of Teresa Chereskin.

Research Objectives: Currents in the Southern Ocean have a profound influence on theworld's oceans, and therefore upon global temperature and the planet's ecosystem. Yet someremote regions receive little scientific attention. Using Doppler technology (sound-wavetransmission and reflection), this project is exploring upper ocean current velocities. Researchersare building a quality-controlled data set in one such sparsely sampled and remote region, whichnonetheless appears to play a significant role in global ocean circulation. They will develop andmaintain a shipboard acoustic Doppler current profiler (ADCP) program on board the USAPresearch vessel Nathaniel B. Palmer (R/V NBP).

Part of the long-term science goal is to characterize the temporal and spatial velocity structurein the Southern Ocean. This entails measuring the seasonal and annual changes in upper oceancurrents within the Drake Passage and then combining this information with similar temperatureobservations to see how the heat exchange varies and how it drives upper ocean currents.

For five years, this project's ADCP and TSG (thermosalinograph) instruments have beeninstalled on the R/V NBP. During each cruise, data is collected and transmitted to the home

http://currents.soest.hawaii.edu/antarctic/index.html

institution. Shipboard electronics technicians and computer support staff maintain and monitorthe systems.

Dr. Andrew Fountain Portland State University Geology [email protected] http://huey.colorado.edu/LTER/



B-425-M NSF/OPP 98-10219Station: McMurdo StationRPSC POC: Jessie CrainResearch Site(s): Lake Hoare, McMurdo Station, Beacon Valley, Lake Bonney, CanadaGlacier, Explorers Cove, Lake Fryxell, Taylor Glacier, Lake Vanda, Lake Brownworth, Lake Vida,Taylor Valley, Dry ValleysDates in Antarctica: Late October to early February


a polar desert

The Role of Natural Legacy on Ecosystem Structureand Function in a Polar Desert: The McMurdo DryValley Long Term Ecological Research Program


Amy F. Ebnet . Andrew Fountain . Thomas H. Nylen . Peter

Sniffen . Martyn Tranter

Research Objectives: This project is the glacier mass balance, melt and energy balancecomponent of the McMurdo LTER.



Dr. William R. Fraser Polar Oceans Group [email protected]



B-013-L/P NSF/OPP 02-17282Station: R/V Laurence M. Gould, PalmerStationRPSC POC: Jessie CrainResearch Site(s): R/V Laurence M. Gould, Adelaide Island, Palmer StationDates in Antarctica:

Palmer Long Term Ecological Research (LTER): Climate,ecological migration, and teleconnections in an ice-dominated

environment

Palmer Long Term Ecological Research Project:Climate, ecological migration, and teleconnections inan ice-dominated environment


Cynthia D. Anderson . William R. Fraser . Heidi N. Geisz .Donna L. Patterson . Brett C. Pickering

Research Objectives: The seabird component of the Long Term Ecological Research (LTER)project will continue studies of seabird communities within the LTER sampling grid withemphasis placed on species abundance and dietary components during summer.


Dr. William R. Fraser Polar Oceans Group [email protected]



B-198-P NSF/OPP 01-30525Station: Palmer StationRPSC POC: Rob EdwardsResearch Site(s): Palmer StationDates in Antarctica:

Monitoring the human impact and environmental variability onAdelie Penguins at Palmer Station


Research Objectives: The potential consequences of antarctic tourism on Adélie penguins(Pygoscelis adeliae) have been debated for more than 20 years. However, the rapid proliferationof these activities since 1970, particularly on the Antarctic Peninsula, has not only forced anextension of these questions to wildlife populations in general, but also colored them with asense of urgency and controversy that has polarized opinions. The key concern is that continuedincreases in these activities will eventually overcome the ability of research to address criticalissues in a timely and biologically meaningful manner. This is a valid concern, since studies toexamine human impacts have either not been implemented at critical sites or are limited inscope because of logistic and experimental constraints.

Understanding how tourism might affect Adélie penguins rests fundamentally on the need toquantify and understand the natural variability manifested by breeding populations over spatialand temporal scales. However, although it is generally recognized that without these data it willbe difficult to critically assess any localized changes from tourism, this ecosystem approach isexpensive and complex and is not likely to be justified by the need to understand tourist impacts.


This group will continue a tourist monitoring program underway at Palmer Station as part of alarge ecosystem-scale study. Palmer Station mirrors current patterns in tourism and tourist–wildlife interactions in the western Antarctic Peninsula. It also provides unique opportunities forresearch on human impacts. This includes the presence of long-term databases that documentenvironmental variability over time and space scales in both marine and terrestrial habitats, aswell as the ability to examine potential tourist impacts as part of controlled experiments.

This research is expected to capitalize and expand on two key findings to date. One is thediscovery of a previously unrecognized source of variability in the Adélie penguin population thatresults from interactions between landscape geomorphology and changing patterns of snowdeposition due to climate warming. The other is the observation that penguins breeding in lessdesirable landscapes may be more susceptible to cumulative impacts induced by the presenceof human activity.

These findings have important implications for understanding interactions between climatechange and ecosystem response, and for detecting, mitigating, and managing theconsequences of human activities such as tourism.

Dr. Antony C. Fraser-Smith Stanford University STAR Laboratory [email protected]



A-100-M NSF/OPP 01-38126Station: McMurdo StationRPSC POC: Charles KaminskiResearch Site(s): McMurdo StationDates in Antarctica: Instruments operate year-round

The Operation of an ELF/VLF Radiometer at Arrival Heights,Antarctica

View from the ELF/VLF radio antenna on the "SecondCrater" at Arrival Heights. Mt. Discovery provides abackdrop for the New Zealand communicationssatellite installation on top of the "First Crater." US(white) and New Zealand (green) huts are also vis

Research Objectives: Since it was discovered in the 1930s that natural phenomena emit thelowest form of electromagnetic energy (radio waves), the field of radio astronomy has joined thescientific effort to analyze both atmospheric and extraterrestrial signals. The extremely-low-frequency and very-low-frequency (ELF/VLF) record of data collected by this project at ArrivalHeights-chosen because it is unusually free from manmade electromagnetic interference-nowextends unbroken for almost 15 years.

The radiometers at McMurdo operate in both the ELF and VLF ranges, monitoring radio noisefrom natural sources such as thunderstorms. Characterizing the possible sources of radiointerference is important for operational purposes. Since thunderstorms generate telltale radiosignals, tracking variations in global noise reflects thunderstorm activity and thus can provideinformation on changes in global climate.

The Arrival Heights site is one of a network of eight such radiometers operated by StanfordUniversity for the Office of Naval Research.


Dr. Thomas K. Frazer University of Florida Department of Fisheries and AquaticSciences [email protected]



B-212-E NSF/OPP 03-36469 SGERStation: Special ProjectRPSC POC: John EvansResearch Site(s): Juan Carlos I (Spanish base) via R/V HesperidesDates in Antarctica: Early January to late February

Complex pelagic interactions in the Southern Ocean: Decipheringthe antarctic paradox


Deploying TeamMembers: Tom Frazer

Research Objectives: Our primary goal is to quantify, examine, model, and validate thecomplex interactions involving the direct, indirect, and feedback effects that regulate theplanktonic food web in the coastal waters of the Southern Ocean in order to find the causes oflow phytoplankton biomass and production there despite the plentiful availability of nutrients. Inparticular, we will evaluate the feedback mechanisms induced through the role of ammonium,which is largely released by aggregations of herbivorous zooplankton (krill specifically) presentin the Southern Ocean, on the resistance to ultraviolet stress by the phytoplanktonic communityand, in particular, the effects on nitrogen incorporation rates, both ammonium and nitrate, andthe subsequent development of phytoplankton blooms.

We will not only address the problem experimentally, but will also consider the context of theheterogeneous landscape, dominated by small parcels of water, where these complexinteractions occur. This project will be conducted through a shore-based (at the Spanish station


Juan Carlos I) operation in 2004 and a subsequent cruise (on the R/V Hesperides) in 2005.

Dr. Thomas K. Gaisser University of Delaware Bartol Research Institute [email protected] http://www.bartol.udel.edu/spase



A-109-S NSF/OPP 99-80801Station: South Pole StationRPSC POC: Charles KaminskiResearch Site(s): South Pole StationDates in Antarctica: Mid November to mid February

South Pole Air Shower Experiment - SPASE 2

South Pole Air Shower Experiment in December 1995 justafter the array was installed. The spacing betweendetectors is 100 feet. The inset shows a close-up of anearby detector with its four modules. Cables to some ofthe outer detectors are also visible.

Deploying TeamMembers: Thomas K. Gaisser . Serap Tilav

Research Objectives: Cosmic rays consist of protons and other atomic nuclei, accelerated(scientists believe) to high energy levels in such distant astrophysical sources as supernovaremnants. As cosmic rays from space arrive at the Earth, they interact in the upper atmosphere.The South Pole Air Shower Experiment-2 (SPASE-2) is a sparsely filled array of 120 scintillationdetectors spread over 15,000 square meters at South Pole. This array detects the chargedparticles (primarily electrons) that are produced by interactions of these very high energy cosmicrays.

A nine-station subarray called VULCAN has been constructed to detect the Cherenkov radiation(light emitted by a charged particle moving through a medium at a higher speed than the speedof light within that material, analogous to the shock wave produced by objects moving faster thanthe speed of sound) produced high above the ground in the same showers. The SPASE array islocated less than half a kilometer from the top of AMANDA and is designed to complementAMANDA's (A-130-M) neutrino detecting capacity.


http://www.bartol.udel.edu/spase

The first of SPASE's two goals is to investigate the high-energy primary cosmic radiation thatcomes from galaxies by determining the relative contribution of different groups of nuclei atenergies greater than about 100 teraelectron volts. This can be done by analyzing coincidencesbetween SPASE and AMANDA. Such coincident events are produced by high-energy cosmic-ray showers with trajectories that pass through SPASE (on the surface) and AMANDA (buried1.5 to 2 kilometers deep). AMANDA detects high-energy muons penetrating the Earth in thosesame showers for which SPASE detects the low-energy electrons arriving at the surface. Theratio of muons to electrons depends on the mass of the original primary cosmic ray nucleus. TheVULCAN detector further permits the calculation of two other ratios that also depend on primarymass in readings from the showers it detects.

The second goal is to use the coincident events as a tagged beam. This configuration permitsinvestigation and calibration of certain aspects of the AMANDA response. This projectcooperates with the University of Leeds in the United Kingdom.

Dr. Ann G. Gargett Old Dominion University Center for Coastal Physical Oceanography [email protected] http://www.serc.si.edu/uvb/Ross_Sea_index.htm



B-208-N NSF/OPP 01-25818Station: RV/IB Nathaniel B. PalmerRPSC POC: Don MichaelsonResearch Site(s): Ross SeaDates in Antarctica: Late October to late November

Interactive effects of UV and Vertical mixing on phytoplankton andbacterioplankton in the Ross Sea


Deploying TeamMembers: Ann G. Gargett . Christopher M. Powell

Research Objectives: Ultraviolet (UV) radiation influences plankton in the near-surface watersof most ecosystems. In particular, the Southern Ocean is affected in the austral spring, when UVradiation is enhanced by ozone depletion. While progress has been made in estimating theimpact of UV radiation on bacteria and phytoplankton in the Southern Ocean, important issuesremain to be resolved. Little is known, for example, about responses in systems dominated bythe colonial haptophyte Phaeocystis antarctica, which dominates spring blooms in the southernRoss Sea. The presence of open water at a far southerly location in the spring, well within theozone hole, and continuous daylight, with implications for DNA repair, make the Ross Sea ofintense interest.

A number of studies suggest that vertical mixing can significantly modify the impact of UVradiation. However, the limited measurements of turbulence intensity in the surface layer thathave been done have not been integrated with parallel studies of the effects of UV radiation on



phytoplankton and bacterioplankton. To address these issues, we will focus on vertical mixingand UV radiation in the Ross Sea and characterize phytoplankton and bacterioplanktonresponses in both laboratory and solar incubations. These studies will lead to biologicalweighting functions and response models capable of predicting the impact of UV radiation onphotosynthesis, bacterial incorporation, and DNA damage in the surface layer.

We will use measure depth-dependent profiles of DNA damage, bacterial incorporation,photosynthesis, and fluorescence parameters over a 24-hour cycle. We have optimizedmeasurements for typical springtime conditions in the Ross Sea, where stabilizing influences likesolar heating and/or surface freshwater from melting ice mean that not enough turbulence ispresent to thoroughly mix the upper layer.

We will develop fine-scale vertical density profiles to directly estimate large eddy scales.Estimated turbulent diffusivities and eddy scales will be directly related to surface layer effectsand used to generate models of UV radiation responses in the surface mixed layer.

This first in-depth study of UV radiation in the Ross Sea will enhance scientific understanding ofvertical mixing processes, trophic interactions, and biogeochemical cycling in the Ross Sea andwill provide a valuable comparison with previous work in the Weddell-Scotia Confluence andPalmer Station regions.

Dr. Robert A. Garrott Montana State University Bozeman Ecology [email protected] http://www.montana.edu/ecology/staff/garrott/antarctica/index.htm



B-009-M NSF/OPP 02-25110Station: McMurdo StationRPSC POC: Patricia JacksonResearch Site(s): McMurdo Station, Beaufort Islands, Big Razorback, Cape Evans, Hutton Cliffs, HutPoint, Cape Royds, Scott Base, McMurdo area sea ice, Turtle RockDates in Antarctica: Early October to late February

Patterns and processes: Dynamics of the Erebus Bay Weddell sealpopulation

Jeff Warren records the tag numbers of a mother and herpup on the north side of the Erebus Glacier tongue. Photoby Darren Ireland.

Deploying Team Members:Susan J. Ellison . Robert A. Garrott . Gillian L. Hadley . Darren S.

Ireland . Mark D. Johnston . Kelly Proffitt . Brent S. Stewart . PamelaK. Yochem

Research Objectives: The Erebus Bay Weddell seal (Leptonychotes weddellii) population study ineastern McMurdo Sound was initiated in 1968 and represents one of the longest intensive fieldinvestigations of a long-lived mammal in existence. Over nearly 35 years, a total of 15,636 animals havebeen tagged, with 144,927 resighting records logged in the database. This study is a valuable resourcefor understanding population dynamics not only of Weddell seals, but also of other species of bothterrestrial and marine mammals. We intend to proceed with two lines of investigation that combine thelong-term database with new field initiatives.

The continuity of the demographic data will be maintained by annually marking all pups born, replacinglost or broken tags, and performing censuses. We will combine the new data with the existing databaseand perform a progressively complex series of demographic analyses that will allow us to test specifichypotheses about population regulation and evaluate previously determined temporal and spatial patternsof variation in vital rates among colonies.

The primary new field initiative will involve an intensive study of mass dynamics of both pups and adultfemales to assess annual variation in marine resources and their potential role in limiting or regulating thepopulation. In addition to collecting data on body mass dynamics, we will use satellite imagery to develop


http://www.montana.edu/ecology/staff/garrott/antarctica/index.htm

an extended time-series of sea ice in McMurdo Sound. (Regional extent of sea ice affects both regionalprimary productivity and availability of haul-out areas.) Increased primary productivity may increasemarine resources, which would be expected to have a positive effect on foraging efficiency, leading toincreased body mass. Understanding the mechanisms that limit or regulate Weddell seal populations andthe specific linkages between climate, oceans, ice, and antarctic food webs can make importantcontributions to knowledge of pinniped population dynamics, as well as theoretical understanding ofpopulations, communities, and ecosystems.

Such knowledge can be readily applied to enhance the ability of natural resource managers to effectivelymaintain assemblages of other large mammal species and the ecological processes they facilitate.Continuation of this long-term study may also contribute to understanding the potential impacts of humanactivities such as global warming and the commercial exploitation of antarctic marine resources.

Dr. Rebecca J. Gast Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution [email protected]



B-207-N NSF/OPP 01-25833Station: RV/IB Nathaniel B. PalmerRPSC POC: Don MichaelsonResearch Site(s): Ross SeaDates in Antarctica: Late October to late November

Comparative and quantitative studies of protistan molecularecology and physiology in coastal antarctic waters



Mark R. Dennett . Rebecca J. Gast . Dawn M. Moran . Julie

Rose . Robert W. Sanders . Rebecca Schaffner . Astrid

Schnetzer . Matthew Travao

Research Objectives: Phototrophic and heterotrophic protists (single-cell organisms — e.g.,protozoa) are ubiquitous in extreme cold water environments, where they are central to theproduction and use of energy and the cycling of elements. The dominance of protists in antarcticfood webs indicates major ecological and biogeochemical roles for these unicellular eukaryotes.Understanding the structure and diversity of these communities and the adaptations that allowthem to flourish near the lower limit of temperature in the ocean is of fundamental importance tobiological oceanography and to understanding the activities and evolution of life on our planet.

The diversity of protistan assemblages has traditionally been studied using microscopy andmorphological characterization. Such an approach is inadequate for ecological studies of thesecommunities due to its tedious nature and the inherent lack of taxonomic characters associated


with most small protists. Molecular methods that use gene sequences to identify and quantifynaturally occurring protists offer a better solution to this problem.

We will perform molecular and physiological studies on protistan assemblages in the sea waterand ice habitats of the Ross Sea in order to address community structure, populationabundance, and adaptation to life in extreme cold. We will focus primarily on species ofphagotrophic protists (protozoa) that are ecologically important but for which no informationexists. Our work is designed to contribute to the understanding of the biodiversity of the protistanassemblages of coastal Antarctica, to provide tools for ecological studies, and to producebenchmark data on the basic physiological processes of protistan species in this extreme cold-water environment.

Dr. Joaquim I. Goes Bigelow Marine Laboratory Department of Ocean Sciences [email protected]



B-206-N NSF/OPP 01-26150Station: RV/IB Nathaniel B. PalmerRPSC POC: Don MichaelsonResearch Site(s): R/V Nathaniel B. PalmerDates in Antarctica: Mid October to late November

Ultraviolet-radiation-induced changes in the patterns of productionand composition of biochemical compounds antarctic marine

phytoplankton



Ashley Below . Joaquim I. Goes . Helga do Rosario Gomes .Nissa L. Lohrmann

Research Objectives: There is enough evidence to show that present levels of incidentultraviolet (UV) radiation—280 to 400 nanometers (nm)—are impairing phytoplanktonproductivity in the Southern Ocean. Yet efforts aimed at extrapolating these findings to allowaccurate and unambiguous predictions of the consequences of UV radiation on the antarcticmarine food web and biogeochemical cycles in the sea have been confounded by uncertainty.Estimates of the effects of UV radiation on the antarctic marine ecosystem range frominsignificant to catastrophic. This disparity has been attributed to lack of information in key areasof photobiology and photochemistry.

Generally, studies have been based on broadband UV radiation and do not take into accountcompeting responses of phytoplankton at different wavelengths across the waveband. Suchinformation is critical if we are to understand the consequences of UV radiation enhancement on


carbon assimilation by marine phytoplankton and its consequences for the food web andbiogeochemical cycles. This is especially true in regions like the Antarctic, where stratosphericozone concentrations can decrease by about 50 percent each spring, thereby altering theproportion of UV–B (280 to 320 nm) and UV–A (320 to 400 nm) radiation that phytoplanktonreceive during their growth season.

We will systematically investigate changes in the production rates and composition ofbiochemical compounds within antarctic phytoplankton cells under spectrally defined conditions.We will examine both laboratory cultures and natural populations in order to understand

+ How the cellular biochemical processes of phytoplankton are affected by the interplay betweenthe different UV wavelengths and visible light,

+ How sensitivity to UV radiation varies across taxonomic groups of phytoplankton, and

+ Whether this difference in sensitivity is responsible for the dominance of one species over theother.

We will also study the effect of UV radiation on nutrient uptake by phytoplankton cells. Theinformation we gain will help ascertain the role of UV radiation in the phytoplankton dynamics ofthe Southern Ocean.

Dr. John W. Goodge University of Minnesota Department of Geological Sciences [email protected]



G-291-M NSF/OPP 02-30280Station: McMurdo StationRPSC POC: Melissa RiderResearch Site(s): Nimrod Glacier, McMurdo StationDates in Antarctica: Mid November to early February

Geophysical mapping of the east antarctic shield adjacent to theTransantarctic Mountains



Jared Abraham . Eric Anderson . Peter Braddock . Detlef

Damaske . Carol A. Finn . John W. Goodge . Heinz-Dieter

Moeller . Mike Reiser . Norbert Roland

Research Objectives: The East Antarctic Shield is one of Earth's oldest and largest cratonicassemblies. Interest in the evolution of the shield has been rekindled over the past decade bytectonic models linking East Antarctica with other Precambrian crustal elements in the Rodiniaand Gondwanaland supercontinents. It has been postulated that the Pacific margin of EastAntarctica was rifted from Laurentia during the late Neoproterozoic breakup of Rodinia; it thendeveloped as an active plate boundary during the subsequent amalgamation of Gondwanaland.A better understanding of the geological evolution of the shield is therefore critical for studyingPrecambrian crustal evolution in general, as well as resource distribution, biosphere evolution,and glacial and climate history during later periods. Because of nearly complete coverage by thepolar continental-size ice capsheets, however, Antarctica remains the single most geologicallyunexplored continent. Also, little is known about the composition and structure of the shield’s


interior.

Therefore, we will conduct an airborne magnetic survey (coupled with ground-based gravitymeasurements) across an important window into the shield where it is exposed in the NimrodGlacier area of the central Transantarctic Mountains. Specific goals are to

+ Characterize the magnetic and gravity signature of the east antarctic crustal basementexposed at the Ross margin,

+ Extend magnetic data westward along a corridor across the polar ice capeast antarctic icesheet to image the crust in ice-covered areas,

+ Obtain magnetic data over the Ross Orogen to image the ice-covered boundary between +basement and supracrustal rocks, and

+ Use the shape, trends, wavelengths, and amplitudes of magnetic anomalies to definemagnetic domains in the shield.

Our survey (to be done in collaboration with German colleagues) will, for the first time, usegeophysical methods to characterize the shield terrain in this sector. This baseline over theexposed shield will allow for a better interpretation of geophysical patterns in other ice-coveredregions and can be used to target future investigations. Once the survey is done, we will thenperform data reduction, interpretation, and geological correlation.

This research will lead to new basic knowledge about the antarctic continent, which in turn mayhelp with applied research in other fields such as the glacial history of Antarctica.

Dr. Arnold L. Gordon Columbia University Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory [email protected] http://www.ldeo.columbia.edu/physocean/anslope



O-215-N NSF/OPP 01-25172Station: RV/IB Nathaniel B. PalmerRPSC POC: Karl NewyearResearch Site(s): R/V Nathaniel B. PalmerDates in Antarctica: Late February to mid April

ANSLOPE: Cross slope exchanges at the antarctic slope front

The first AnSlope cruise. Photo by Arnold Gordon.


Amy Bratcher . Kathryn Brooksforce . Bruce Huber . Samar

Khatiwala . Gerd Krahmann . Fred Martwick . Philip Mele .Alejandro Orsi . Andreas Thurnherr . Martin Visbeck

Research Objectives: What is the role of the antarctic slope front (ASF) and continental slopemorphology in the exchanges of mass, heat, and freshwater between the shelf and oceanicregimes, in particular those leading to outflows of dense water into intermediate and deep layersof the adjacent deep basins and world ocean circulation?

The importance to the global ocean circulation and climate of cold water masses originating inthe Antarctic is understood, but the processes by which these water masses enter the deep


http://www.ldeo.columbia.edu/physocean/anslope

ocean circulation are not. Our program, called AnSlope, will address this problem. Our primarygoal is to identify the principal physical processes that govern the transfer of shelf-modifieddense water into intermediate and deep layers of the adjacent deep ocean, as well asunderstand the compensatory poleward flow of waters from the oceanic regime. The uppercontinental slope is the critical gateway for the exchange of shelf and deep ocean waters. Herethe topography, velocity, and density fields associated with the nearly ubiquitous ASF muststrongly influence the transfer of water properties between the shelf and oceanic regimes.

AnSlope has four specific objectives:

+ Determine the ASF's mean structure and the principal scales of spatial and temporalvariability, and estimate the ASF's role in cross-slope exchanges and mixing of adjacent watermasses;

+ Determine the influence of slope topography on frontal location and outflow of dense shelfwater;

+ Establish the role of frontal instabilities, benthic boundary layer transports, tides, and otheroscillatory processes on cross-slope advection and fluxes; and

+ Assess the effect of shear-driven and double-diffusive mixing, lateral mixing identified throughintrusions, and nonlinearities in the equation of state on the rate of descent and the fate ofoutflowing, near-freezing shelf water.

We will address these objectives with an integrated observational and modeling program. Wewill perform a set of measurements whose basic elements are moorings, microstructureanalysis, tracers, and basic tidal modeling. Three cruises over a 12- to 14-month periodbeginning in the austral summer of 2003 will provide the data. Moorings will be in placethroughout this period. Existing Italian and German programs will provide enhancement and atest bed for our parameterizations of cross-front exchange.

Dr. Edward S. Grew The University of Maine Department of Geological Sciences [email protected]



G-067-E NSF/OPP 02-28842Station: Special ProjectRPSC POC: John EvansResearch Site(s): Australia's Davis StationDates in Antarctica: Mid November to early February

Boron in antarctic granulite-facies rocks: Under what conditions isboron retained in the middle crust?

At the joint Geological Association of Canada-Mineralogical Association of Canada meeting inVancouver (May '03), principle investigators Ed Grew(left) and Chris Carson plan for upcoming fieldwork onborosilicate minerals in the Larsemann Hills, Prydz Ba

Deploying TeamMembers: Chris Carson . Edward S. Grew

Research Objectives: Trace elements provide valuable information on the changessedimentary rocks undergo as temperature and pressure increase during burial. One suchelement, boron, is particularly sensitive to increasing temperature because of its affinity foraqueous fluids, which are lost as rocks are buried. The boron content of unmetamorphosedpelitic sediments ranges from 20 to over 200 parts per million, but rarely exceeds 5 parts permillion in rocks subjected to the conditions of the middle and lower crust. Devolatization withloss of aqueous fluid and partial melting with removal of melt have been cited as primary causesfor boron depletion in granulite-facies rocks. Despite the pervasiveness of both these processes,rocks rich in boron are locally found in granulite-facies in the Larsemann Hills along Prydz Bay.More than 20 lenses and layered bodies containing four borosilicate mineral species crop outover a 50-square-kilometer area.

While most investigators have focused on the causes of boron loss, we will use field


observations and mapping, chemical analyses of minerals and their host rocks, and microprobeage-dating to investigate how boron is retained during high-grade metamorphism. Our workinghypothesis is that a high initial content facilitates retention of boron during metamorphism. Forexample, in a rock with large amounts of the borosilicate tourmaline (such as strata-boundtourmalinite), the breakdown of tourmaline to melt could result in the formation of prismatine andgrandidierite, two borosilicates found in the Larsemann Hills. This situation is rarely observed inrocks with a modest boron content, in which tourmaline breakdown releases boron into partialmelts, which in turn remove it when they leave the system.

Strata-bound tourmalinite is associated with manganese-rich quartzite, phosphorus-rich rocks,and sulfide concentrations that could be indicative of a tourmalinite protolith in a highlymetamorphosed complex where sedimentary features have been destroyed by deformation.Because partial melting plays an important role in the fate of boron, our research will focus onthe relationship between borosilicate units, granite pegmatites, and other granitic intrusives. Ourresults will provide information on boron cycling at deeper levels in the Earth's crust and onpossible sources of boron for granites originating from deep-seated rocks.

Dr. Brenda L. Hall The University of Maine Inst. for Quat./Climate Stud. and Dept ofGeol Sci [email protected]



I-196-M NSF/OPP 01-24014Station: McMurdo StationRPSC POC: Melissa RiderResearch Site(s): Lake Vanda, Lake Bonney, Lake Joyce, Lake Fryxell, Lake Vida, ConvoyRange, McMurdo Station, Dry ValleysDates in Antarctica: Late December to early February

Millennial-scale fluctuations of Dry Valleys lakes: A test ofImplications for regional climate variability and theinterhemispheric (a)synchrony of climate change

Sediment coring crew on Lake Fryxell, January 2003.Photo by Brenda Hall.


Gordon Bromley . Katrina R. Faloon . Brenda L. Hall . Chris

Hendy . Erica Hofstee . Thomas Whittaker

Research Objectives: A key unresolved question in antarctic glaciology concerns the stabilityof the West Antarctic Ice Sheet (WAIS). The WAIS is marine-based, meaning that its substratumis a series of archipelagoes in the northwestern Ross Sea Embayment off the northern ScottCoast. At its relatively fixed position, the WAIS is grounded on the continental shelf with plateboundaries nearby. In contrast, the East Antarctic Ice Sheet sits on a stable lithospheric plate.

As deglaciation began after the last glacial maximum (LGM), the WAIS became unmoored.Scientists believe this was likely the first area of the shelf to become free of grounded ice.Learning how and when and in what sequence this occurred is a critical step towards isolatingthe mechanisms (sea level, climate, ocean temperature, and internal dynamics) that control


WAIS dynamics.

The northern Scott Coast is of particular interest to researchers looking for mechanisms that mayhave triggered the key stages of deglaciation. An important first step is to better constrain theage of structures where the inquiry is focused. The Barbados coral record suggests the initialretreat from the Ross Sea Embayment may have begun as early as 17,000 years ago. Incontrast, recent glacial geologic mapping and relative sea-level suggests that deglaciation onthe southern Scott Coast occurred more recently. Using carbon-14 dating (14C), it appears thatdeglaciation occurred there during the Holocene (the last 11,000 years) with southwardgrounding-line migration past Ross Island shortly before 6,500 years ago. This chronologysuggests that rising sea level could not have driven grounding-line retreat to the Siple Coast,because deglacial sea-level rise essentially would already have occurred by mid-Holocene.

To begin to resolve this conflict, one deficiency in the data from the southern Scott Coast mightbe corrected. Those data cannot differentiate among the possible triggering mechanismsbecause they come from 450 kilometers south of the LGM grounding-line position. The goal ofthis project is to try to overcome this by constructing relative sea-level curves on a transect alongthe northern Scott Coast. Researchers hope to get the ages for this work from accelerator massspectrometer 14C dates of seal skins and shells within raised beaches. These curves shouldreveal when the grounded ice from the northwestern Ross Sea Embayment cut loose.

Dr. Francis Halzen University of Wisconsin Madison Physics Department [email protected] http://icecube.wisc.edu


Aeronomy & AstrophysicsDr. Vladimir Papitashvili

Dr. John Lightbody Program Managers

A-333-S NSF/OPP 02-36449, 03-31873Station: South Pole StationRPSC POC: Charles KaminskiResearch Site(s): South Pole StationDates in Antarctica: Early November to early February

IceCube

Occupying a volume of one cubic kilometer, theIceCube neutrino telescope uses the Antarctic icesheet as its window to the cosmos.


Robin J. Bolsey . Jeff Cherwinka . Jonathan Eisch . Paul A.

Evenson . James A. Green . Terry B. Hannaford . John Kelley

. Kyler W. Kuehn . Pawel J. Marciniewski . Andrew McDermott

. Bob Morse . Mark Mulligan . Rolf Nahnhauer . Robert Paulos

. James A. Roth . Darryn Schneider . Edward F. Shultz .Shigeru Yoshida

Research Objectives: We will begin building the IceCube Observatory, which will be installed atthe South Pole. IceCube is a neutrino telescope that will be buried 1.4 to 2.4 kilometers underthe ice and used during the austral summers over a 6-year period. The detector will consist of4,800 optical modules deployed on 80 vertical strings. AMANDA (see project A–130–S) servesas a prototype for this international collaborative effort.

Using neutrinos as cosmic messengers, IceCube will open unexplored wavelength bands and


http://icecube.wisc.edu/

will answer such fundamental questions as what the physical conditions in gamma ray burstsare and whether the photons originating in the Crab supernova remnant and near the supermassive black holes of active galaxies are of hadronic (derived from subatomic particlescomposed of quarks) or electromagnetic origin. The telescope will also serve to examine theparticle nature of dark matter, aid in the quest to observe super symmetric particles, and searchfor compactified dimensions.

This season we will plan the schedule and begin assembling and testing the components anddrilling systems we will use to construct the observatory. Since many parts of the Universecannot be explored using other types of radiation (protons do not carry directional informationbecause they are deflected by magnetic fields, neutrons decay before they reach the Earth, andhigh-energy photons may be absorbed), IceCube will fill a gap in our knowledge and occupy aunique place in astronomical research.

Dr. Gordon S. Hamilton The University of Maine Institute for Quaternary and ClimateStudies [email protected]



I-178-M NSF/OPP 02-29245Station: McMurdo StationRPSC POC: Jessie CrainResearch Site(s): Mount Moulton, Allan Hills, McMurdo StationDates in Antarctica: Early January to early February

Glaciology of blue ice areas in Antarctica



Andrei Kurbatov . John C. Moore . V. Blue Spikes . Leigh A.Stearns

Research Objectives: A horizontal ice core was collected at the Mount Moulton blue ice field inWest Antarctica, and preliminary analyses of the sample suggest that a climate record of roughly500,000 years is preserved in the ice there. We aim to contribute to the understanding of theMount Moulton record by assessing the possibility that the ice-flow record has been deformed.

Specifically, we will

+ Resurvey an existing global positioning system (GPS) grid to determine ice velocities andstrain rates,

+ Use ground-penetrating radar (GPR) to image the internal stratigraphy of the ice,

+ Use GPR to map subglacial topography, and

+ Collect two firn ice cores to determine stratigraphic continuity and modern accumulation rates.


In addition, we will build on the recognition of blue ice areas as archives of long climate recordsby conducting reconnaissance studies for a potential horizontal ice-core location in the AllanHills of East Antarctica. We will

+ Resurvey an existing GPS to confirm earlier ice-velocity measurements and calculate strainrates,

+ Survey several profiles using GPR to image internal stratigraphy and bedrock geometry,

+ Collect one or two shallow firn cores to study accumulation rates,

+ Conduct dielectric profiling to study stratigraphic continuity over a 1- to 2-kilometer profile, and

+ Collect meteorites.

By collecting relevant measurements of ice flow and subglacial topography and taking samplesof material, we will be able to assess the preservation of the stratigraphic sequences andcontribute to the understanding of blue ice areas.

Dr. William R. Hammer Augustana College Department of Geology [email protected]



G-298-M NSF/OPP 02-29698Station: McMurdo StationRPSC POC: Melissa RiderResearch Site(s): McMurdo Station, Beardmore GlacierDates in Antarctica: Mid November to late December

Vertebrate Paleontology of the Triassic to Jurassic sedimentarysequence in the Beardmore Glacier area of Antarctica

Vertebrate Paleontology of the Triassic to Jurassicsedimentary sequence in the Beardmore Glacier areaof Antarctica


Peter Braddock . James W. Collinson . Philip J. Currie .William R. Hammer . Kevin Kruger . Andrew Sajor . Nathan D.Smith

Research Objectives: During a 3-year study, we will investigate fossils from Triassic andJurassic dinosaurs and other vertebrates in the central Transantarctic Mountains. A fieldprogram to search for Upper Triassic to Jurassic fossil vertebrates in the Beardmore Glacierregion will be carried out in the 2003–04 austral summer. Initially, we will concentrate our effortson the Hanson Formation, which has produced the only Jurassic dinosaur fauna in Antarctica.We will then further excavate the Hanson dinosaur locality on Mount Kirkpatrick and will followthat with an extensive search of other exposures of the Hanson, Falla, and Upper FremouwFormations in the Beardmore area.

Our field party will operate for 3 to 4 weeks out of a small helicopter camp in the Beardmorearea. The field party will consist of six persons, to allow two groups of three to workindependently at different sites. One group will excavate the Mount Kirkpatrick site, while the


other reconnoiters. In addition to collecting new specimens, we will interpret the depositionalsettings for each of the vertebrate sites. Our second and third years will be dedicated topreparing and studying the vertebrates.

Antarctic vertebrates provide a unique opportunity to study the evolutionary and biogeographicsignificance of high-latitude Mesozoic fauna, and this project should result in significantadvances in knowledge.

Dr. Anthony D. Hansen Magee Scientific Company [email protected] http://www.mageesci.com/researchreports



O-314-M NSF/OPP DBI 01-19793Station: McMurdo StationRPSC POC: Curt LaBombardResearch Site(s): McMurdo Station, New HarborDates in Antarctica: Late October to late January

Solar/wind powered instrumentation module development for polarenvironmental research

PI Tony Hansen stands beside one of twoautonomous instrumentation modules this groupinstalled in the Dry Valleys in the 2002-03 fieldseason. In addition to a payload of scientificinstrumentation, each installation is solar-powered andsends live webca

Deploying TeamMembers: Anthony D. Hansen . Joseph D. Mastroianni

Research Objectives: We will develop and test a self-contained, transportable module that willprovide a sheltered, temperature-controlled interior environment for standard, rack-mountedequipment. Electric power will be provided by solar panels and a wind generator, backed up bybatteries with several days' capacity. The module will offer both alternating and direct current forinternal and external use and will include data logging and communications capability forpractical application in a polar environment.

At South Pole Station, McMurdo Station, and almost all other inhabited camps in Antarctica,aircraft, helicopters, ground vehicles, diesel generators, and other sources release exhaust,which can affect the environment. The collection of real-time pollution data at downwindlocations can be used to assess the amount of pollution and the effectiveness of efforts toimprove air quality. At this time, optimal placement of measuring instruments is severely limitedby the availability of power and shelter, a limitation that this module is intended to overcome.


http://www.mageesci.com/researchreports

Although designed to facilitate measurements at the South Pole, the module will be helpful in avariety of other situations where remotely located equipment is to be used for long-termmonitoring of environmental phenomena. The module will have no emissions at all and thereforewill not affect the environment that it is designed to study. Also, it could be placed anywhere it isneeded.

Dr. Ralph P. Harvey Case Western Reserve University Department of Geological Sciences [email protected] http://www.cwru.edu/affil/ansmet



G-058-M NSF/OPP 99-80452Station: McMurdo StationRPSC POC: Melissa RiderResearch Site(s): McMurdo Station, LaPaz IcefieldDates in Antarctica: Late November to early February

The Antarctic Search for Meteorites (ANSMET)

The Antarctic Search for Meteorites (ANSMET)


Nancy Chabot . Gordon Osinski . Christopher A. Cokinos .Gretchen Benedix . Oliver Botta . Barbara Cohen . Andrew J.

Dombard . Ralph P. Harvey . Monika Kress . Rene Martinez .William J. McCormick . John W. Schutt . Timothy D. Swindle

Research Objectives: Since 1976, ANSMET (the antarctic search for meteorites program) hasrecovered more than 12,000 meteorite specimens from locations along the TransantarcticMountains. Antarctica is the world's premier meteorite hunting ground for two reasons:

+ First, although meteorites fall at random all over the globe, the likelihood of finding a meteoriteis enhanced if the background material is plain and the accumulation rate of terrestrial sedimentis low; this makes the East Antarctic Ice Sheet the perfect medium.

+ Second, along the margins of the sheet, ice flow is sometimes blocked by mountains,nunataks, and other obstructions; this exposes slow-moving or stagnant ice to the fiercekatabatic winds, which can deflate the ice surface and expose a lag deposit of meteorites (a


http://www.cwru.edu/affil/ansmet

representative portion of those that were sprinkled throughout the volume of ice lost to the wind).When such a process continues for millennia, a spectacular concentration of meteorites can beunveiled.

The continued recovery of antarctic meteorites is of great value because they are the onlyavailable source of new, nonmicroscopic extraterrestrial material. As such, they provideessential “ground truth” about the composition of asteroids, planets, and other bodies of oursolar system. ANSMET recovers samples from the asteroids, the Moon, and Mars for a tinyfraction of the cost of returning samples directly from these bodies.

During the 2003–2004 field season, ANSMET's main field party (eight people) will work at theLaPaz icefields, approximately 250 miles from Amundsen-Scott South Pole Station. More than200 meteorites were recovered from the site during reconnaissance visits in 1991 and 2002.This year's field team will begin systematic searches of the icefields in an effort to recover arepresentative sample of the extraterrestrial material falling to Earth.

A second team consisting of four people will conduct high-level reconnaissance at a number oficefields throughout the mid Transantarctic Mountains, from the Miller Range in the north toRoberts Massif in the south. This reconnaissance team will visit poorly known or previouslyunvisited icefields, recovering meteorites and identifying their potential for more detailedsearches during future seasons.

Dr. Gonzalo Hernandez University of Washington [email protected]



A-110-M/S NSF/OPP 02-29251Station: McMurdo Station, South PoleStationRPSC POC: Charles KaminskiResearch Site(s): Arrival Heights, SkyLabDates in Antarctica: Mid January to early February (McMurdo), late January (South Pole)

Austral high-latitude atmospheric dynamics



Stephen T. Barlow . Gonzalo Hernandez . Anthony T. Mactutis

. Michael P. McCarthy . Bryan Venema . Ruth Wilton-Godberfforde

Research Objectives: Atmospheric dynamics observations at Antarctica provide criticalunderstanding of the global behavior of the atmosphere in the high latitude regions.

The South Pole is a unique and interesting spot from which to observe the dynamic motion ofthe atmosphere. It's position on the earth's axis of rotation strongly restricts the types of wavemotions that can occur there compared to lower latitude sites.

This project uses high-resolution Fabry-Perot spectrometers at South Pole Station and ArrivalHeights (78S) to make simultaneous azimuthal observations of the individual line spectra ofseveral upper atmospheric trace species, most importantly the hydroxyl radical (OH) and atomicoxygen. The observed Doppler shift of the emission lines provides a direct measure of the line-of-sight wind speed, while the wind field structure can also be derived from these multi-azimuth


measurements. The simultaneously observed line widths also provide a direct measurement ofkinetic temperature.

The goal of this project is to observe, characterize and understand high-latitude mesosphericmotions and thermospheric persistent vertical winds near Arrival Heights simultaneously withthose at South Pole. In both locations, observations are made during the austral winter.

During the austral summer, project team members deploy to both stations to performmaintenance and system upgrades. During the austral winter, the instruments operate in 24-hour data acquisition mode and station technicians perform routine maintenance andoperations.

Dr. John A. Hildebrand Scripps Institution of Oceanography Marine Physical Laboratory [email protected]



B-239-L NSF/OPP 99-10007Station: R/V Laurence M. GouldRPSC POC: Alice DoyleResearch Site(s): Antarctic Peninsula AreaDates in Antarctica: Late March to mid April

Mysticete whale acoustic census in the GLOBEC west antarcticproject area


Research Objectives: The U.S. Southern Ocean Global Ocean Ecosystems Dynamics(GLOBEC) program focused on the distribution of antarctic krill (Euphausia superba) in theMarguerite Bay/West Antarctic Peninsula region, as well as on environmental and ecosystemfactors that are important for krill distribution. Our primary goal was to study the distribution andabundance of mysticete whales by using both visual and acoustic techniques. These dataallowed us to model the rates of krill predation by whales in the study area.

In continuing our research, we hope to better understand the relationship between the physicaland biological factors that affect the behavior of whales and their krill predation. To estimate thepopulation of mysticete whales, we used passive acoustic recording of vocalizing marinemammals and assessed their abundance and distribution by a combination of bottom-mountedacoustic recorders and sonobuoys. During the 2001–2002 austral summer, eight bottom-mounted acoustic recorders were recovered and redeployed at sites in the west AntarcticPeninsula. This austral summer, we intend to recover these acoustic recorders and beginanalyzing our findings.


Dr. Dave Hofmann National Oceanic and AtmosphericAdministration R/CMDL1 [email protected] http://www.cmdl.noaa.gov



O-257-S NSF/OPP NOAA/NSF agreementStation: South Pole StationRPSC POC: Charles KaminskiResearch Site(s): ARO, Clean Air SectorDates in Antarctica: Instruments operate year-round

South Pole monitoring for climatic change: U.S. Department ofCommerce NOAA Climate Monitoring and Diagnostic Laboratory

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration/Climate Monitoring and Diagnostics Laboratory staffLoreen Lock (right) and Brian Vasel (left) launch aplastic balloon on September 22, 2002 carrying anozonesonde to study the 2002 Antarctic Ozone Hole e


Andy Clark . Glen Kinoshita . Geoff Dutton . Eric Hackathorn .Bryan Johnson . Jason M. Seifert . Daniel Simon

Research Objectives: The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has beenconducting studies to determine and assess the long-term buildup of trace atmosphericconstituents that influence climate change and the ozone layer. Time-series analyses of long-term data provide insight into several phenomena of particular interest. These include:

+ Seasonal and temporal variations in greenhouse gases,

+ Stratospheric ozone depletion,

+ Transantarctic transport and deposition,

+ The interplay of the trace gases and aerosols with solar and terrestrial radiation fluxes that



occur on the polar plateau, and

+ The development of polar stratospheric clouds over Antarctica.

Project scientists measure carbon dioxide, methane, carbon monoxide, stable isotopic ratios ofcarbon dioxide and methane, aerosols, halocarbons, and other trace constituents. Flask samplesare collected and returned for analysis, while concurrent in situ measurements are made ofcarbon dioxide, nitrous oxide, selected halocarbons, aerosols, solar and terrestrial radiation,water vapor, surface and stratospheric ozone, wind, pressure, air and snow temperatures andatmospheric moisture. Air samples at Palmer Station are also collected.

These measurements allow researchers to determine the rates at which concentrations of theseatmospheric constituents change. They also point to likely sources, sinks, and budgets. Thisgroup collaborates with climate modelers and diagnosticians to explore how the rates of changeof these parameters affect climate.

Dr. David Hofmann National Oceanic and AtmosphericAdministration R/CMDL [email protected] http://www.cmdl.noaa.gov



O-264-P NSF/OPP NOAA/NSF agreementStation: Palmer StationRPSC POC: Rob EdwardsResearch Site(s): Palmer StationDates in Antarctica: Instruments operate year-round

Collection of atmospheric air for the NOAA/CMDL worldwide flasksampling network

Kristin Van Konyenburg, the Palmer Station physicianin 2002, shown here operating the NOAA/ClimateMonitoring and Diagnostic Laboratory, carbon cycleflask sampler. The sampler can be seen in thebackground with the sample inlet line extended twelvef

Deploying TeamMembers: Thomas Conway

Research Objectives: The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has beenconducting studies to determine and assess the long-term buildup of trace atmosphericconstituents that influence climate change and the ozone layer. Time-series analyses of long-term data provide insight into several phenomena of particular interest. These include:

+ Seasonal and temporal variations in greenhouse gases,

+ Stratospheric ozone depletion,

+ Transantarctic transport and deposition,

+ The interplay of the trace gases and aerosols with solar and terrestrial radiation fluxes thatoccur on the polar plateau.



Personnel at Palmer Station will collect air samples to be analyzed for carbon dioxide, methane,carbon monoxide, stable isotopic ratios of carbon dioxide and methane. Flasks will also becollected for analysis of halocarbons, nitrous oxide, and other trace constituents.

These measurements allow researchers to determine the rates at which concentrations of theseatmospheric constituents change. They also point to likely sources, sinks, and budgets. Thisgroup collaborate with climate modelers and diagnosticians to explore how the rates of changeof these parameters affect climate.

Dr. William L. Holzapfel University of California Berkeley Physics [email protected] http://cosmology.berkeley.edu/group/swlh/acbar



A-378-S NSF/OPP 02-32009Station: South Pole StationRPSC POC: Charles KaminskiResearch Site(s): South Pole StationDates in Antarctica: Instruments operate year-round, mid October to mid February (projectteam deploys)

High-resolution obervations of the cosmic microwave background(CMB) with ACBAR

High-resolution obervations of the cosmic microwavebackground (CMB) with ACBAR


Michael Daub . William L. Holzapfel . Oren Leaffer . Matthew

Newcomb . Jeffrey B. Peterson . Christian Reichardt . John

Ruhl . Zachary Staniszewski

Research Objectives: We will continue our observations with the Arcminute CosmologyBolometer Array Receiver (ACBAR), a 16-element 230-micro-Kelvin bolometer receiverdesigned to produce high-resolution images of the cosmic microwave background (CMB) in 3-mm wavelength bands. Mounted on the 2.1-meter Viper telescope at the South Pole, ACBARhas sensitivity that rivals balloon-borne experiments and angular resolution that they cannothope to achieve. Making full use of the excellent atmospheric conditions in the austral winter atthe South Pole, ACBAR is producing images of CMB radiation with sensitivity and resolution thatexceed the capabilities of even the European Space Agency’s proposed Planck satellite (to be


http://cosmology.berkeley.edu/group/swlh/acbar

launched in 2007)

Observations of the CMB provide a unique window on the early Universe; moreover, these dataplay a key role in transforming cosmology into a precise science. In particular, small angular-scale observations of the CMB are a new frontier about which comparatively little is known. Onthese angular scales, contributions from secondary anisotropies introduced by interveningstructures are expected to become dominant. For example, the scattering of photons by hot gasbound to clusters of galaxies results in a spectral distortion of the CMB known as the Sunyeav-Zel’dovich Effect (SZE). Observations of the SZE can provide important new constraints ontheories of how the Universe grew.

The unique capabilities of ACBAR, which was deployed to the South Pole in December 2000,allow it to address a broad range of science focused on measuring primary and secondary CMBanisotropies. Our observations and analysis will help realize the full potential of this powerfulinstrument for the study of cosmology. Four institutions will continue to collaborate in themaintenance and operation of ACBAR and Viper and participate in the data analysis.

The results will serve as a vital complement to the large-scale Microwave Anistropy Probe(MAP) spacecraft data set and provide an essential check of the fine-scale excess powerreported by other single-frequency experiments. The novel instrumentation, observationtechniques, and analysis developed for ACBAR are generally applicable to future ground-basedmillimeter astronomy experiments. In addition, this project has provided hands-on researchexperience to several undergraduate and graduate students.

Dr. George L. Hunt University of California Irvine Ecological and Evolutionary Biology [email protected]



B-025-E NSF/OPP 02–34570 SGERStation: Special ProjectRPSC POC: John EvansResearch Site(s): French sub-Antarctic IslandsDates in Antarctica: Early December to late February

Food web structure across a large-scale ocean productivitygradient: Top predator assemblages in the southern Indian Ocean

Photo not available

Deploying TeamMembers: David Hyrenbach . Richard Viet

Research Objectives: A pervasive goal of biological oceanography is to understand theprocesses that structure pelagic communities. Research suggests that the distribution of oceanicspecies is influenced by physical and biological variability on a number of spatial-temporalscales. Our objective is to test the hypothesis that the dispersion and community of toppredators vary in accordance with large-scale variability in physical structure and oceanproductivity in pelagic ecosystems. We will therefore conduct a survey of bird and mammal useof distinct oceanographic domains in the southern Indian Ocean.

Two U.S. scientists will join French scientists on board a French research vessel near ReunionIsland. The French scientists will sample the physical environment and estimate oceanicproductivity, while the U.S. scientists will survey top predator distributions in physical andbiological properties across a 35-degree latitudinal gradient from subtropical to subantarcticwaters.


We hypothesize that top predator assemblages are structured by spatial gradients inhydrographic properties and ocean productivity patterns known to influence the distribution andpatchiness of their prey (zooplankton, fish, and squid) and that the overall abundance of marinetop predators within a specific oceanic domain is largely determined by ocean productivity. Also,we hypothesize that the energetic costs of foraging determine which types of top predatorsinhabit specific domains. Species with high foraging costs must exploit dense prey aggregationswithin highly productive areas. Conversely, taxa with low foraging costs can inhabit low-productivity areas with more dispersed prey.

We will quantify the association of specific water masses with top predator assemblages, as wellas their aggregative response at hydrographic and bathymetric domains. Because top predatorsrespond to oceanographic variability at multiple scales of time and space, we will use a variety ofanalytical methods to assess their responses in the context of large- and coarse-scale(thousands and tens of kilometers, respectively) hydrographic and ocean productivity patterns inthe subtropical and subantarctic Indian Ocean. This interdisciplinary perspective will enhanceour understanding of the way physical and biological processes structure pelagic communities inthe southern Indian Ocean and will provide a model that has broader implications for the oceansas a whole.

Dr. Umran S. Inan Stanford University Department of Electrical Engineering [email protected] http://www-star.stanford.edu/~vlf/south_pole/south%20pole.htm



A-108-S NSF/OPP 00-93381Station: South Pole StationRPSC POC: Charles KaminskiResearch Site(s): South Pole StationDates in Antarctica: Instruments operate year-round

A very-low-frequency (VLF) beacon transmitter at South Pole(2001-2004)


Deploying TeamMembers: Jeff Chang . Umran S. Inan . Evans Paschal

Research Objectives: Relativistic electrons -- measured at geosynchronous orbit with energiesof more than 300 kiloelectron volts -- appear to fluctuate in response to substorm and solaractivity. During such events, these highly energetic electrons can penetrate as low as 30 to 40kilometers above the Earth's surface. At that altitude, they can wreak havoc in the atmosphere,ionizing chemical species, creating X-rays, and perhaps influencing the chemistry that producesozone.

This is a 3-year project to establish and operate a very-low-frequency (VLF) beacon transmitterat South Pole to measure solar effects on the mesosphere and lower ionosphere. The extent ofrelativistic electron precipitation can be calculated from variations in amplitude and phase of theVLF signals at different antarctic stations. The transmitter will also produce other data as well -on solar proton events, relativistic electron precipitation from Earth's outer radiation belts, and onthe Joule heating components of high-latitude/ polar-cap magnetosphere/ionosphere coupling




processes.

VLF data from the South Pole beacon provides a valuable complement to two other efforts: Thesouthern hemisphere coherent HF radar network, Super4 Dual Auroral Network (SUPERDARN),and the Solar Anomalous and Magnetospheric Particle Explorer (SAMPEX), ongoing satellite-based measurements of trapped and precipitating high-energy electrons at high and lowaltitudes.

Dr. Umran S. Inan Stanford University Department of Electrical Engineering [email protected] http://www-star.stanford.edu/~palmer/



A-306-P NSF/OPP 02-33955Station: Palmer StationRPSC POC: Rob EdwardsResearch Site(s): Palmer StationDates in Antarctica: Instruments operate year-round

Global thunderstorm activity and its effects on the radiation beltsand the lower ionosphere


Deploying TeamMembers: Umran S. Inan

Research Objectives: Tracking dynamic storms is a challenge, but lightning associated withthunderstorms can provide scientists an indirect way of monitoring global weather. This projectemploys very-low-frequency (VLF) radio receivers at Palmer Station, operated in collaborationwith the British and Brazilian Antarctic Programs, both of which operate similar receivers. All arecontributors to the Global Change Initiative.

The VLF receivers measure changes in the amplitude and phase of signals received fromseveral distant VLF transmitters. These changes follow lightning strokes because radio (whistler)waves from the lightning can cause very energetic electrons from the Van Allen radiation belts toprecipitate into the upper atmosphere. This particle precipitation then increases ionization in theionosphere, through which the propagating VLF radio waves must travel. Because theorientations to the VLF transmitters are known, it is possible to triangulate the lightning sourcesthat caused the changes. Once the direction of the lightning source is known, it can be subjected


http://www-star.stanford.edu/~palmer/

to waveform analysis and used to remotely track the path of thunderstorms.

The data will be correlated with data from the antarctic Automatic Geophysical Observatorynetwork and will be used by scientists studying the magnetosphere and the ionosphere.

Dr. Wade H. Jeffrey University of West Florida Center for Environ Diagnostics andBioremediation [email protected] http://www.serc.si.edu/uvb/Ross_Sea_index.htm



B-200-N NSF/OPP 01-27022Station: RV/IB Nathaniel B. PalmerRPSC POC: Don MichaelsonResearch Site(s): Ross SeaDates in Antarctica: Late August to early December

POTATOE: Production Observations Through AnotherTranslatitudinal Oceanic Expedition: Alaska to Antarctica; the

Mother Of All Transects (MOAT)



Amy J. Baldwin . Wade H. Jeffrey . Jarah Meador . Joseph

Moss . Joseph D. Pakulski . Richard Stephens


A number of studies suggest that vertical mixing can significantly modify the impact of UV



radiation. However, the limited measurements of turbulence intensity in the surface layer thathave been done have not been integrated with parallel studies of the effects of UV radiation onphytoplankton and bacterioplankton. To address these issues, we will focus on vertical mixingand UV radiation in the Ross Sea and characterize phytoplankton and bacterioplanktonresponses in both laboratory and solar incubations. These studies will lead to biologicalweighting functions and response models capable of predicting the impact of UV radiation onphotosynthesis, bacterial incorporation, and DNA damage in the surface layer.




Mr. Bjorn Johns UNAVCO/UCAR [email protected] http://www.unavco.ucar.edu/project_support/polar/polar.html



G-295-M NSF/OPP EAR 99-03413Station: McMurdo StationRPSC POC: Patricia JacksonResearch Site(s): McMurdo StationDates in Antarctica: Mid October to mid February

University NAVSTAR Consortium (UNAVCO) GPS survey support

GPS survey of a geodetic control point at Cape Hallett.Photo by Chuck Kurnik.

Deploying TeamMembers: Beth Ann Bartel . Charles Kurnik

Research Objectives: UNAVCO provides year-round support for scientific applications of theGlobal Positioning System (GPS) to U.S. Antarctic Program, supported and managed by theNational Science Foundation's Office of Polar Programs. This support includes pre-season planning,field support, and post-season follow-up, as well as development work for supporting newapplications. UNAVCO maintains a "satellite" facility at McMurdo Station during the austral summerresearch season, providing a full range of support services, including geodetic GPS equipment,training, project planning, field support, technical consultation, data processing, and data archiving.

UNAVCO also operates a community differential GPS (DGPS) base station that covers McMurdoSound and Taylor Valley, provides maintenance support to the MCM4 continuous GPS station ascontractual support to the NASA GPS Global Network (GGN), and supports remote continuous GPSstations for scientific investigations.

Using GPS, vector baselines between receivers separated by 100 kilometers or more are routinelymeasured to within 1 centimeter (that is, 100 parts per billion). UNAVCO is also able to supportresearchers who are investigating global, regional, and local crustal motions where maximumaccuracy (in the millimeter range) of baseline measurement is required. GPS measurements using


http://www.unavco.ucar.edu/project_support/polar/polar.html

portable equipment can be completed in a few hours or less. Such expediency lends itself toresearch applications in global plate tectonics, earthquake mechanics, volcano monitoring, andregional tectonics.

Dr. Ralph F. Keeling University of California San Diego Scripps Institution of Oceanography [email protected] http://bluemoon.ucsd.edu



O-204-P/S NSF/OPP ATM 00-00923Station: Palmer Station, South Pole StationRPSC POC: Rob EdwardsResearch Site(s): Palmer StationDates in Antarctica: Instruments operate year-round

A study of atmospheric oxygen variability in relation to annual todecadal variations in terrestrial and marine ecosystems


Deploying TeamMembers: Ralph F. Keeling

Research Objectives: Oxygen, the most abundant element on the Earth, comprises about afifth of the atmosphere. But much of the Earth's oxygen resides in other chemical species (inwater, rocks, and minerals) and, of course, in flora and fauna that recycle it (both directly and ascarbon dioxide) through the processes of photosynthesis and respiration. Thus scientists areinterested in measuring the concentration of molecular oxygen and carbon dioxide in airsamples. This project includes a subset of sample collections being made at a series of baselinesites around the world.

These data should help to improve estimates of the processes whereby oxygen is cycledthroughout the global ecosystem, specifically, through photosynthesis and atmospheric mixingrates. They improve predictions of the net exchange rates of carbon dioxide with biota, on landand in the oceans. An important part of the measurement program entails developing absolutestandards for oxygen-in-air, to ensure stable long-term calibration. This group will also conduct


http://bluemoon.ucsd.edu/

surveys of the oxidative oxygen/carbon ratios of both terrestrial- and marine-based organiccarbon, hoping to improve the quantitative basis for linking the oxygen and carbon dioxidegeochemical cycles.

These results should help enhance understanding of the processes that regulate the buildup ofcarbon dioxide in the atmosphere and of the change processes -- especially climate change --that regulate ecological functions on land and in the sea.

Dr. Robert C. Kemerait United States Air Force AFTAC [email protected]



G-078-M NSF/OPP NSF/OPP-DoD MOAStation: McMurdo StationRPSC POC: Doug MillerResearch Site(s): Dry Valleys, Mount Newall, McMurdo StationDates in Antarctica: Late October to mid December

Dry Valley seismic project

Clay Himmelsbach, Kevin Filiatrault and Will Burkinstalling a new seismic data digitizing system in aborehole close to Bull Pass in the Wright Valley.Photo by Jimmy Jackson.

Deploying TeamMembers: Kevin L. Filiatrault . Jimmy L. Jackson . Mikel MacDonald

Research Objectives: The Dry Valleys Seismic Project monitors regional and global seismicity.This station is an element in the Air Force Technical Applications Center (AFTAC) SouthernNetwork (ASN). The network provides near real time data from nine locations within thesouthern hemisphere. The data is telemetered to the National Data Center in Florida and isavailable to the international scientific community.


Dr. Mahlon C. Kennicutt, II Texas A & M University Geochemical & Environmental ResearchGroup [email protected] http://www.gerg.tamu.edu



B-518-M NSF/OPP SGERStation: McMurdo StationRPSC POC: Karen PavichResearch Site(s): McMurdo StationDates in Antarctica: Late November to mid December

Spatial and temporal scales of human disturbance

With Scott Hut in the background, Chuck Kennicutt recordsdata for monitoring spatial and temporal scales of humandisturbance. Photo by Dianna Gielstra.

Deploying TeamMembers: Stephen Sweet . Sally Morehead . Andrew Klein

Research Objectives: Antarctica represents perhaps one of the most carefully-tended andstrictly-monitored habitats on Earth. Aside from the manifest desire to protect the flora, faunaand the atmosphere of a relatively pristine environment, there is the value the extreme southernlatitudes provide as a virtual baseline barometer of global pollution. The Antarctic Treaty'sProtocol on Environmental Protection, supplemented by the policies and practices of the nationswho work and do science there, have combined to focus scrutiny on any anthropogenic impactsthat can be foreseen or detected.

This project is collecting a system of observations that should enable scientists to be moreaware of any such impacts - on both marine and terrestrial habitats - in and around McMurdoStation, locating them precisely and tracking them over time. Based on a three-year pilotprogram of sampling and data analysis, an initial environmental monitoring program is beinginitiated. The feasibility of this design will be evaluated in the current season. Point-datasampling grids at various spatial scales measuring a series of attributes indicative of change will


http://www.gerg.tamu.edu/

be established. Our objectives are to determine:

+ The spatial and temporal scales of change, and its origin;

+ How efficiently this observational system documents relevant changes in important habitatcharacteristics; and

+ The usefulness of various approaches to reference or control locations.

We will use GIS-techniques and geostatistical methods to organize these diverse data sets intoa coherent, coordinated framework. The results should provide additional fundamental scientificinformation for developing a long-term strategy to document and minimize the impacts of futurescience (and support operations) on antarctic resources and values.

Dr. David J. Kieber State University of New York Syracuse Chemistry Department [email protected] http://www.esf.edu/chemistry/kieber/kieber.htm



B-266-N NSF/OPP 02-30499Station: RV/IB Nathaniel B. PalmerRPSC POC: Don MichaelsonResearch Site(s): Ross SeaDates in Antarctica: Mid October to late November

Impact of solar radiation and nutrients on biogeochemical cyclingof DMSP and DMS in the Ross Sea



John Bisgrove . David J. Kieber . Deirdre A. Toole . Emily M.White

Research Objectives: Areas of the Southern Ocean have spectacular blooms of phytoplanktonduring the austral spring and early summer. One of the dominant species, the haptophytePhaeocystis antarctica, is a prolific producer of the organic sulfur compounddimethylsulfoniopropionate (DMSP), and Phaeocystis blooms are associated with some of theworld's highest concentrations of DMSP and its volatile degradation product, dimethylsulfide(DMS). Sulfur, in the form of DMS, is transferred from the oceans to the atmosphere and canaffect the chemistry of precipitation and influence cloud properties and, possibly, climate. DMSPand DMS are also quantitatively significant components of the carbon, sulfur, and energy flowsin many marine food webs, although very little information is available on these processes inhigh-latitude systems.

We will study how solar radiation and iron cycling affect DMSP and DMS production byphytoplankton and the subsequent use of these labile forms of organic matter by the microbial


http://www.esf.edu/chemistry/kieber/kieber.htm

food web. Four interrelated hypotheses will be tested in field-based experiments and in situobservations:

+ That solar radiation, including enhanced ultraviolet-B due to seasonal ozone depletion, playsan important role in determining the net ecosystem production of DMS in the Ross Sea;

+ That development of shallow mixed layers promotes the accumulation of DMS in surfacewaters, because of enhanced exposure of plankton communities to high doses of solar radiation;

+ That DMSP production and turnover represent a significant part of the carbon and sulfur fluxthrough polar food webs; and

+ That bloom development and resulting nutrient depletion (e.g., iron) will result in highproduction of DMSP and high DMS concentrations and atmospheric fluxes.

Results from this study will greatly improve understanding of the underlying mechanismscontrolling DMSP and DMS concentrations in polar waters, thereby improving our ability topredict DMS fluxes to the atmosphere from this important climatic region.

We actively engage high school, undergraduate, and graduate students in our research and areinvolved in formal programs that target underrepresented groups. The information gained fromthis research will also be used in teaching undergraduate and graduate courses and will enrichstudents’ experience.

Dr. Ronald P. Kiene University of South Alabama University South Alabama [email protected] http://www.southalabama.edu/marinesciences/fac_kiene.html




Impact of solar radiation and nutrients on biogeochemical cycling ofDMSP and DMS in the Ross Sea, Antarctica

Principal investigator Ron Kiene secures quartz tubes foroverside incubation.


Daniela del Valle . Hyakubun Harada . Ronald P. Kiene .Dorothea Slezak

Research Objectives: Areas of the Southern Ocean have spectacular blooms of phytoplanktonduring the austral spring and early summer. One of the dominant species, the haptophytePhaeocystis antarctica, is a prolific producer of the organic sulfur compounddimethylsulfoniopropionate (DMSP), and Phaeocystis blooms are associated with some of theworld's highest concentrations of DMSP and its volatile degradation product, dimethylsulfide (DMS).Sulfur, in the form of DMS, is transferred from the oceans to the atmosphere and can affect thechemistry of precipitation and influence cloud properties and, possibly, climate. DMSP and DMS arealso quantitatively significant components of the carbon, sulfur, and energy flows in many marinefood webs, although very little information is available on these processes in high-latitude systems.

We will study how solar radiation and iron cycling affect DMSP and DMS production by phytoplanktonand the subsequent use of these labile forms of organic matter by the microbial food web. Fourinterrelated hypotheses will be tested in field-based experiments and in situ observations:

+ That solar radiation, including enhanced ultraviolet-B due to seasonal ozone depletion, plays animportant role in determining the net ecosystem production of DMS in the Ross Sea;


http://www.southalabama.edu/marinesciences/fac_kiene.html

+ That development of shallow mixed layers promotes the accumulation of DMS in surface waters,because of enhanced exposure of plankton communities to high doses of solar radiation;

+ That DMSP production and turnover represent a significant part of the carbon and sulfur fluxthrough polar food webs; and

+ That bloom development and resulting nutrient depletion (e.g., iron) will result in high production ofDMSP and high DMS concentrations and atmospheric fluxes.

Results from this study will greatly improve understanding of the underlying mechanisms controllingDMSP and DMS concentrations in polar waters, thereby improving our ability to predict DMS fluxesto the atmosphere from this important climatic region.

We actively engage high school, undergraduate, and graduate students in our research and areinvolved in formal programs that target underrepresented groups. The information gained from thisresearch will also be used in teaching undergraduate and graduate courses and will enrich students’experience.

Dr. Stacy L. Kim San Jose State University Moss Landing Marine Laboratories [email protected] http://www.mlml.calstate.edu/groups/benthic/aspire2/index.htm



B-010-M NSF/OPP 01-26319Station: McMurdo StationRPSC POC: Curt LaBombardResearch Site(s): Cape Armitage, Cinder Cones, Cape Chocolate, Cape Evans, New Harbor, TurtleRock, McMurdo area sea ice, McMurdo StationDates in Antarctica: Early October to early December

Community dynamics in a polar ecosystem: Benthic recovery fromorganic enrichment in the Antarctic

While diving at the Dailey Islands, Andrew Thurberprepares to enter a tide crack. Photo Stacy Kim.


Kathleen Conlan . Jonna Engel . Jennifer L. Fisher . Stacy L. Kim .Craig V. Lewis . Daniel P. Malone . James M. Oakden

Research Objectives: The Antarctic is considered one of the most pristine habitats on the planet.Humans occupy only a tiny portion of the continent. Though the human footprint in Antarctica is smalland generally highly localized, there are areas where anthropogenic contamination is severe. Forexample, past practices at McMurdo Station have resulted in a few highly contaminated marine areas,such as the one near the sewage outfall. High levels of organic enrichment have radically altered thelocal benthic community. The altered community and surrounding undisturbed communities have beenwell described over a 10-year period.

In January 2003, a sewage treatment plant was completed at McMurdo Station, and the organic inputto the seafloor has dropped markedly. On the basis of existing information on community recoverydynamics in polar ecosystems from ice-mediated disturbances (icebergs and anchor ice) and intemperate ecosystems from organic-loading, we predict that recovery will begin immediately.However, growth and reproduction are often slow in antarctic species. Thus, complete recovery mayextend over a much longer period than in temperate areas. In addition, slow microbial processes atlow polar temperatures have allowed a large pile of organic material to build up at the outfall site, andsome changes may be the result of burial rather than organic enrichment. Finally, the size of the


http://www.mlml.calstate.edu/groups/benthic/aspire2/index.htm

disturbance is unusual; small organic inputs such as seal feces and dead fish are common, but largesewage outfalls are not. Thus, the outfall and new treatment plant provide a unique opportunity for alarge-scale experiment on recovery.

In October and November 2002, we collected data to describe the habitat and community while theoutfall was still in operation. This will be added to the data we collected from 1988 to 1998 to provide abaseline. We initiated experiments with organic content, burial, and disturbance size as variables.During the next two seasons, we will track the recovery of the benthic community, compare the rateswith those predicted from a meta-analysis of recovery from organic disturbance in a variety of habitats,and contrast the role of organic loading with burial and patch size. Our integrated approach will furtherthe understanding of anthropogenic impacts in polar environments.

Dr. Karl J. Kreutz The University of Maine IQCS/ Department of Geological Sciences

[email protected] http://www.ume.maine.edu/iceage/



I-191-M NSF/OPP 02-28052Station: McMurdo StationRPSC POC: Melissa RiderResearch Site(s): McMurdo Station, Dry Valleys, Canada GlacierDates in Antarctica: Mid October to mid December

Dry Valleys Late Holocene climate variability

Eclipse ice core drill in operation. Photo by KarlKreutz.


Steven A. Arcone . Karl J. Kreutz . Erich C. Osterberg . Mike

Waszkiewicz . Bruce Williamson

Research Objectives: We will collect and develop high-resolution ice-core records from the DryValleys in southern Victoria Land and provide interpretations of interannual to decadal climatevariability during the past 2,000 years (late Holocene). We will test hypotheses related toocean/atmosphere teleconnections (e.g., El Niño Southern Oscillation, Antarctic Oscillation) thatmay be responsible for major late Holocene climate events such as the Little Ice Age in theSouthern Hemisphere.

Conceptual and quantitative models of these processes in the Dry Valleys during the lateHolocene are critical for understanding recent climate changes. We plan to collect intermediate-length ice cores (100 to 200 meters) at four sites along transects in Taylor and Wright Valleysand analyze each core at high resolution for stable isotopes, major ions, and trace elements. Asuite of statistical techniques will be applied to the multivariate glaciochemical data set to identifychemical associations and to calibrate the time-series records with available instrumental data.


http://www.ume.maine.edu/iceage/

Broader impacts of the project include

+ contributions to several ongoing interdisciplinary antarctic research programs;

+ graduate and undergraduate student involvement in field, laboratory, and data interpretationactivities;

+ use of project data and ideas in several University of Maine courses and outreach activities;and

+ data dissemination through peer-reviewed publications, University of Maine and otherpaleoclimate data archive Web sites, and presentations at national and international meetings.

Dr. Rikk G. Kvitek California State University Monterey Bay Earth Systems Science and Policy [email protected] http://seafloor.csumb.edu/



B-320-E NSF/OPP 02-29991Station: McMurdo StationRPSC POC: Karen PavichResearch Site(s): R/V Italica, Terra Nova BayDates in Antarctica: Late January to early March

Victoria Land latitudinal gradient project: Benthic marine habitatcharacterization


Deploying TeamMembers: Pat Iampietro . Rikk G. Kvitek . Erica Summers . Kate Thomas

Research Objectives: Our work is part of a multinational, multidisciplinary program called theVictoria Land Latitudinal Gradient Project (VLLGP), which includes scientists from both theItalian Antarctic Research Program (PNRA) and the Antarctica New Zealand Research Program.The overall goal of the VLLGP is to take a latitudinal gradient approach to ecosystem studies inVictoria Land.

Personnel from the Seafloor Mapping Lab (SFML) at California State University–Monterey Baywill participate in a 20-day PNRA cruise on the research ship Italica during January 2004. Thespecific goals of this Italian/U.S. collaboration are to

+ Identify the environmental gradients linked to latitude and to relate community transitions alongthe Victoria Land coast to climatic, geomorphologic, and oceanographic features;

+ Identify biochemical, physiological, and other adaptive responses of representative organisms;


http://seafloor.csumb.edu/

+ Quantify biodiversity patterns and test the hypothesis of progressive emergence of marineassemblages with latitude; and

+ Use biotic changes associated with steep environmental gradients to predict possible effectsof climate change.

We will use high-resolution acoustic remote-sensing (multibeam and sidescan sonar) andspatial data-modeling tools to identify and characterize benthic habitats and species/habitatassociations along the gradient from a depth of 0 to 200 meters. Accurate mapping andclassification of habitat types within each study area will be critical to selecting comparablesampling sites so valid community comparisons can to be made along the latitudinal gradient.Since the Ross Sea coast extends across one of the longest latitudinal gradients in the Antarctic(15 degrees), this study offers a unique opportunity for predicting and establishing a baseline todetect environmental and community responses to global change and anthropogenicdisturbance.

This work will not only foster research, logistical, and data management collaboration amongscientists from different disciplines and national programs, but it will also provide undergraduatestudents with the opportunity to participate in the research.

Dr. Philip R. Kyle New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology Department of Earth & Environmental Science [email protected] http://www.ees.nmt.edu/Geop/Erebus/erebus.html



G-081-M NSF/OPP 02-29305Station: McMurdo StationRPSC POC: Patricia JacksonResearch Site(s): Mount ErebusDates in Antarctica: Mid November to early January

Mount Erebus Volcano Observatory and Laboratory (MEVOL)

Werner Giggenbach descending into the crater of Mt.Erebus for gas samples. Just before reaching the lavalake, an eruption forced Werner to return to the rimwith singed ropes and clothes. Photo by WilliamMcIntosh.


Kurt Panter . Brian Winter . Shauna Mikelich . John (Harry)

Ross Keys . Colleen B. Brogenski . Jacquelin Caplin-Auerbach

. Julie Ann Calkins . Peter Kelly . Philip R. Kyle . Clive

Matthew Martin Oppenheimer . Dawn Catherine Sweeney


http://www.ees.nmt.edu/Geop/Erebus/erebus.html

Research Objectives: Mount Erebus, Antarctica’s most active volcano, is a rare example of apersistently active magmatic system. This volcano, which has a history of low-level eruptiveactivity associated with a highly accessible summit vent complex, also features one of Earth’sfew long-lived lava lakes. We will develop an interdisciplinary geophysics/geochemistrylaboratory on Mount Erebus to pursue basic research on the eruption physics and associatedmagmatic recharge of active volcanoes. Erebus is especially appropriate because of itspersistent open-conduit magmatic system, frequent eruptions, ease of access (by antarcticstandards), and established scientific and logistical infrastructure, including real-time data linksand relative safety.

The key integrated data-gathering components we will rely on include video surveillance andseismic, infrasound, Doppler radar, infrared, volcanic gas, and geodetic studies. To collect thedata, a combination of core Mount Erebus Volcano Observatory and Laboratory (MEVOL)–supported personnel and their students (with specialties in seismology, gas studies, and generalvolcanology) will collaborate with internationally recognized volcano researchers (with specialtiesin infrared, Doppler radar, gas studies, and infrasound).

We will then develop quantitative models of the magmatic system of an active volcano, includingeruptive energy balance (gravity; explosive gas decompression; and thermal, seismic, acoustic,and kinetic components) and magma recharge (volcanic tremor, convection, residence time, gasemissions, and deformation). We expect this research to contribute substantially to basicknowledge of active volcanoes around the world.

Another part of our work involves a project to develop and deploy integrated low-power, low-cost, real-time-telemetered volcano monitoring stations at Erebus and other active volcanoes.(Many volcanoes, particularly in the developing world, have little or no modern instrumentation.)The goal is to contribute to the development of low-power, low-cost interdisciplinary geophysicalobservatories within the larger seismology, geodesy, and geophysical communities.

Our work also includes the education of graduate and undergraduate students in volcanologyand geophysics, the dissemination of information to high school audiences, and the provision ofyear-round monitoring information to the National Science Foundation and to McMurdo Station.Finally, to convey the excitement and societal relevance of volcanology and other aspects ofearth science, we expect to continue public outreach through lectures, media interaction, andinquiry response.

Dr. James W. LaBelle Dartmouth College Department of Physics & Astronomy [email protected] http://www.dartmouth.edu/artsci/physics/spacephy/experiment.html



A-128-S NSF/OPP 00-90545Station: South Pole StationRPSC POC: Charles KaminskiResearch Site(s): South Pole StationDates in Antarctica: Early to mid January

A versatile electromagnetic waveform receiver for South Pole Station

Principal investigator James LaBelle next to the project'santenna in the science sector at South Pole. Photo byShengyi Ye.

Deploying Team Members: James W. LaBelle . Allan T. Weatherwax . Shengyi Ye

Research Objectives: The Earth's aurora naturally emits a rich variety of radio waves at low, medium,and high frequencies (LM/MF/HF) which are signatures of the interaction between the auroral electronbeam and the ionospheric plasma. Yet some of the mechanisms that generate plasma waves are not wellunderstood. This project focuses on several types of signals detectable at ground level, including auroralhiss, which occurs primarily at very low frequencies but often extends into the LF/MF range, and auroralroar, a relatively narrow band emission generated near or at the second and third harmonics of theelectron cyclotron frequency.

This group uses a versatile electromagnetic waveform receiver deployed at South Pole Station. Onlyrecently has it been possible to conceive of an inexpensive, versatile receiver of this type for the SouthPole. An antarctic location is essential for ground-based observations of LF auroral hiss because thebroadcast bands usually found in the northern hemisphere are typically absent in Antarctica. Further, theabsence of broadcast bands improves the effectiveness of automatic wave-detection algorithms.

Researchers can use the receiver to address many issues. For example, it has recently been discoveredthat auroral roar is sometimes modulated at frequencies between 7 and 11 Hertz, a phenomenon calledflickering auroral roar. This receiver will enable researchers to discover how common flickering auroralroar is, the conditions under which it occurs, what the frequencies are, and how the amplitude andfrequency vary over time.

Between 15 percent and 30 percent of auroral hiss events are not observable at very low frequencies. Thereceiver will determine whether LF auroral hiss consists exclusively of relatively unstructured broadbandimpulses or whether it sometimes displays a fine structure similar to that of auroral kilometric radiation and


http://www.dartmouth.edu/artsci/physics/spacephy/experiment.html

whistler mode waves in the same frequency range detected in the lower ionosphere. Project teammembers will also define and test auroral roar and auroral hiss mechanisms. Despite its extensiveapplication for communications, the LF/MF/HF band has been relatively little investigated as a source ofnatural radio emissions detectable at ground level.

A complete knowledge of our geophysical environment requires understanding the physics of theseemissions. Further, electron beam–plasma interactions analogous to the terrestrial aurora occur in manyspace physics and astrophysics applications. Often, the electromagnetic radiation emitted by thesesystems is our only source of knowledge about them. The local auroral plasma provides an opportunity toview some plasma radiation processes at close range.

Dr. Andrew Lange California Institute of Technology Physics [email protected] http://www.astro.caltech.edu/~lgg/bicep_front.htm



A-033-S NSF/OPP 02-30438Station: South Pole StationRPSC POC: Charles KaminskiResearch Site(s): MAPODates in Antarctica: Instruments operate year-round

Background Imaging of Cosmic Extragalactic Polarization (BICEP):An experimental probe of inflation

BICEP mount and environmental enclosure. Themount allows the receiver to continuously rotate aboutthe optical axis and periodically toggle by 180 degreesin azimuth.

Research Objectives: The Cosmic Microwave Background (CMB) provides three strong butcircumstantial pieces of evidence that the visible Universe was created by the superluminalinflation of a tiny volume of space: namely,

+ The near isotropy (homogeneity) of the horizon,

+ The flatness of space, and

+ The phase-synchronicity of acoustic oscillations in the early Universe.

To better understand the origins of the Universe, we must probe this epoch of inflation directly.The most promising probe is the unique signature that the gravity wave background (GWB)imprints on the polarization of the CMB. The amplitude of this signature depends on the energy-scale of inflation.

Detection will require only modest angular resolution (about 1 degree), but long integration(about a year) on a restricted and contiguous patch of sky. The 6-month night, the extremely dry


http://www.astro.caltech.edu/~lgg/bicep_front.htm

and stable weather, and the precise rotation of the sky about the zenith make South Pole Stationthe ideal terrestrial site for this ambitious project. A CMB polarimeter (BICEP) uniquely capableof detecting the signature of the GWB is being constructed and will be available for deploymentin 2003. BICEP will operate simultaneously at 100 and 150 gigahertz (GHz) to both minimizeand recognize confusion from polarized astrophysical foregrounds. At these frequencies, amodest (and thus relatively easy to deploy and maintain) 20-cm primary aperture will provide aresolution of 1 degree at 100 GHz and 0.7 of a degree at 150 GHz.

By combining a new polarization-sensitive bolometric detector technology developed for theEuropean Space Agency’s Planck satellite (to be launched in 2007) with four independent levelsof signal differencing and a carefully optimized observing strategy, BICEP will reach the currentlimit on CMB polarization in the first hour of integration, reach the sensitivity of Planck over 1percent of the sky in the first week, and precisely measure CMB polarization on the criticalangular scales of 1 degree to 10 degrees.

Observational cosmology is enjoying a renaissance that has captured the public imagination andserves as one of the most effective vehicles for stimulating interest in science in general.Detecting the signature of the GWB in the CMB would represent a triumph of fundamentalphysics and cosmology that would revolutionize our understanding of the origins of the Universe.

Dr. Edward J. Larson University of Georgia History [email protected]



W-221-M NSF/OPP .Station: McMurdo StationRPSC POC: Elaine HoodResearch Site(s): McMurdo Station, Dry Valleys, New Harbor, Mount Erebus, Cape Royds,Beardmore Glacier, WAISDates in Antarctica: Late November to late January

History of science in Antarctica

Photo of the artist by David Parkam.

Deploying TeamMembers: Edward J. Larson

Research Objectives: Dr. Larson will chronicle the history of scientific research in the Antarctic,beginning with Captain Cook’s expedition and concluding with the region’s present scientificsignificance. He has authored four books, co-authored four books, and written over fiftypublished articles, mostly on science, medicine and law issues. His most recent book,Evolution’s Workshop: God and Science in the Galapagos Islands (2001), sold 20,000 copies insix months, and Summer for the Gods: The Scopes Trial and America’s Continuing Debate OverScience and Religion (1997) won a Pulitzer Prize. The Fulbright Program named Larson to theJohn Adams Chair in American Studies for 2001, and he received the 2000 George SartonAward from the American Association for the Advancement of Science.

Dr. Larson will work out of McMurdo for two months. He plans to visit science teams as theywork in the field as well as the historic huts.


Dr. Marc R. Lessard Dartmouth College Thayer School of Engineering [email protected]



A-136-S NSF/OPP 01-32576Station: South Pole StationRPSC POC: Charles KaminskiResearch Site(s): South Pole StationDates in Antarctica: Mid December to mid January

Measurement and analysis of extremely-low-frequency (ELF)waves at South Pole Station

ELF magnetic sensor coil, receiver, and the dataacquisition system. Inside the receiver (inset). Photoby Hyomin Kim.

Deploying TeamMembers: Hyomin Kim . Marc R. Lessard . Paul Riley

Research Objectives: This project aims to detect and record magnetic field fluctuations in theextremely-low-frequency (ELF) range at South Pole Station, specifically auroral ion cyclotronwaves, which have been well correlated with flickering aurora. Theory predicts that these wavesmodulate precipitating electron fluxes, thereby causing the flickering in luminosity emissions.Substantial evidence now supports this theory, although the excitation mechanism responsiblefor the ion cyclotron waves is somewhat uncertain. Perhaps the most well-developed theorysuggests that the waves result from an electron-beam instability. In any case, the frequency ofthe flickering or, equivalently, the frequency of the ground-based observations of ion cyclotronwaves can be used to infer the altitude of the excitation mechanism, since the wave frequencydepends on the strength of the background magnetic field, which is a known quantity. As such,the information that will be acquired can be used to test models of auroral accelerationmechanisms, as well as study dispersive ELF waves, a type of wave that has been reported inthe literature only a few times, but one that may provide important information on substorm onset


or, perhaps, the boundaries of open and closed magnetic fields.

A first step is to identify the wave mode and to determine the location and geomagneticconditions under which these waves can be observed. The equipment used to make theseobservations consists of an induction coil magnetometer and data acquisition system. Theinduction coil is a commercially available device, one that was originally designed forgeophysical exploration. Data will be returned to Dartmouth College for analysis.

Dr. Bruce P. Luyendyk University California Santa Barbara Institute for Crustal Studies [email protected]



G-152-N NSF/OPP 00-88143Station: RV/IB Nathaniel B. PalmerRPSC POC: Ashley LoweResearch Site(s): Ross SeaDates in Antarctica: Early to mid January

Antarctic cretaceous-Cenozoic climate, glaciation, and tectonics:Site surveys for drilling from the edge of the Ross Ice Shelf


Deploying TeamMembers: Tonya Sue Del Sontro . Louis Bartek

Research Objectives: Many of the questions on the evolution of the East and West AntarcticIce Sheets, antarctic climate, global sea level, and tectonic history of the West Antarctic RiftSystem can be answered by drilling into the floor of the Ross Sea. We will therefore conduct sitesurveys for drilling from the Ross Ice Shelf into the seafloor beneath. Climate data for this sectorof Antarctica are lacking for the Cretaceous and Early Cenozoic. Questions include,

+ Was there any ice during the Late Cretaceous?

+ What was the antarctic climate like during the Paleocene-Eocene global warming?

+ When was the Cenozoic onset of antarctic glaciation? When did glaciers reach the coast andwhen did they advance onto the margin?

+ Was the Ross Sea shelf nonmarine in the Late Cretaceous? If so, when did it become marine?


Tectonic questions include,

+ What was the timing of the Cretaceous extension in the Ross Sea rift and where was itlocated?

+ What is the basement composition and structure?

+ Where are the time and space limits of the effects of Adare Trough spreading?

Sampling at four drill sites was completed in the early 1970s but had low recovery and did notsample the Early Cenozoic. Other drilling has been restricted to the McMurdo Sound area of thewestern Ross Sea, and results can be correlated for the Victoria Land Basin but not eastwardacross basement highs. Further, Early Cenozoic and Cretaceous rocks have not been sampled.

Our surveys (including core samples and long profiles and detailed grids over potential drillingsites) will be conducted a kilometer or two north of the ice-shelf front. In 2 to 4 years, thenorthward advance of the shelf will cover surveyed locations and drilling can begin. The calvingof giant icebergs from the ice front in the eastern Ross Sea have exposed 16,000 squarekilometers of seafloor that has been covered for decades and has therefore not been explored.We will be able to map structure and stratigraphy below unconformity RSU6 farther south andeast, study the place of Roosevelt Island in the Ross Sea rifting history, and determinesubsidence history during the Late Cenozoic in the far south and east. Finally we will observecurrent sedimentary processes beneath the ice shelf in the newly exposed areas.

Dr. W. Berry Lyons Ohio State University Byrd Polar Research Center [email protected]



B-259-M NSF/OPP 02-29836Station: McMurdo StationRPSC POC: Melissa RiderResearch Site(s): Cape Hallett, McMurdo StationDates in Antarctica: Early November to mid February

Soil biodiversity and response to climate change: A regionalcomparison of Cape Hallett and Taylor Valley



John E. Barrett . Craig Cary . Timothy O. Fitzgibbon . Diana H.Wall

Research Objectives: Soil ecosystems along the Victoria Land coast from the McMurdo DryValleys in the south to Cape Hallett in the north occur across broad gradients of biodiversity,climate, and soil resource legacies from previous climates (organic matter, nutrients, and salts).The range of conditions can be used to test specific hypotheses derived from a soil biodiversityand habitat model developed from the McMurdo Dry Valleys Long-Term Ecological ResearchProgram (LTER). This habitat suitability model describes the distribution, abundance, anddiversity of soil biota based on a combination of legacy and contemporary soil and climateproperties.

We will extend this model to the greater Victoria Land region at Cape Hallett. Insights into therelationship between biodiversity (microbes and invertebrates) and ecosystem functioning (soilrespiration and nutrient cycling) may be especially important in Victoria Land since itencompasses a range of ecosystems, from those with near minimum organic matter and no


invertebrates to those with very high organic matter deposits and complex food webs. Our 2-year program of field and laboratory research will address how soil food webs and ecosystemprocesses are affected by climate, legacy, and contemporary soil processes.

We will begin the regionalization of results and insights from the McMurdo LTER study anddetermine whether the changes in biodiversity along the range of soil habitats and landscapegradients in Taylor Valley occur similarly across gradients in a richer, more complex habitat(Cape Hallett). There is a immediate need to understand how soil biodiversity and ecosystemfunctioning are related and to determine the factors influencing the distribution of soilbiodiversity across Antarctica.

The taxonomic complexity of soil food webs elsewhere limits our ability to draw inferences aboutthe functional significance of biodiversity and the responses of soil communities to varyingconditions and climate. The extension and testing of a conceptual model of soil biodiversitybased on the simplest soil communities on Earth will contribute to the knowledge of complextemperate ecosystems. These linked studies of microbial and invertebrate diversity in relation tosoil organic matter, moisture, and temperature change at Taylor Valley and Cape Hallett willprovide one of the most complete quantitative assessments of soil diversity to date.

Dr. W. Berry Lyons Ohio State University Byrd Polar Research Center [email protected] http://huey.colorado.edu



B-420-M NSF/OPP 98-10219Station: McMurdo StationRPSC POC: Jessie CrainResearch Site(s): Taylor Valley, Wright Valley, McMurdo Station, Lake Hoare, Lake Fryxell,Lake Bonney, Lake Joyce, Lake MiersDates in Antarctica: Mid October to mid February


a polar desert

McMurdo Dry Valleys Long Term Ecological Research(LTER): The role of natural legacy on ecosystemstructure and function in a polar desert

Deploying TeamMembers: Carol E. Landis . Kathleen A. Welch . Rebecca Witherow

Research Objectives: Chemistry of streams, lakes, and glaciers component of McMurdo LTER.The group is responsible for monitoring the inorganic geochemistry of waters collected fromglaciers, streams and lakes of the dry valleys. This year the group will address questions aboutthe concentrations and fluxes of phosphorus in various components of the ecosystem. They willcoordinate with another project of the principal investigator (GO-074-O) to examine the nature ofchemical weathering in the Dry Valleys.



Dr. Douglas R. MacAyeal University of Chicago Department of Geophysical Sciences [email protected] http://amrc.ssec.wisc.edu/amrc/iceberg.html



I-190-M NSF/OPP 02-29546Station: McMurdo StationRPSC POC: Doug MillerResearch Site(s): McMurdo Station, USCG Icebreaker, Drygalski Ice Tongue, Ross Ice ShelfDates in Antarctica: Early October to mid February

Collaborative research of Earth's largest icebergs

RV Polar Sea "facing off" against iceberg B15A forthe first time in January of 2001. This project flew offthe deck of the Polar Sea and placed sensors andGPS receivers on the iceberg, allowing them tomonitor it's position and weather conditions. Photo


Tim Parker . Mary Templeton . Ronals Ross . Andrew Bliss .Jill Franks . Young-Jin Kim . Douglas R. MacAyeal . Emile

Okal . Marianne H. Okal . Olga V. Sergienko . Jonathan E.Thom

Research Objectives: Icebergs released by the antarctic ice sheet represent the largestmovements of fresh water within the natural environment. Several of these icebergs, B–15, C–19, and others calved since 2000, represent over 6,000 cubic kilometers of fresh water—anamount roughly equivalent to 100 years of the flow of the Nile River.

We will study the drift and breakup of the Earth’s largest icebergs, which were recently releasedinto the Ross Sea as a result of calving from the Ross Ice Shelf. We will attempt to ascertain thephysics of iceberg motion within the dynamic context of ocean currents, winds, and sea ice,which determine the forces that drive iceberg motion, and the relationship between the icebergand the geographically and topographically determined pinning points on which it can ground. Inaddition, we will study the processes by which icebergs influence the local environment (sea ice


http://amrc.ssec.wisc.edu/amrc/iceberg.html

near Antarctica, access to penguin rookeries, air-sea heat exchange and upwelling at icebergmargins, nutrient fluxes), as well as the processes by which icebergs generate globally far-reaching ocean acoustic signals that are detected by seismic-sensing networks.

In addition, we will attempt to deploy automatic weather stations, seismometer arrays, and globalpositioning system tracking stations on several of the largest icebergs presently adrift, or aboutto be adrift, in the Ross Sea. Data generated and relayed via satellite to our home institutionswill lead to theoretical analysis and computer simulation and will be archived on a Web site(http://amrc.ssec.wisc.edu/amrc/iceberg.html) that scientists and the general public can access.

A better understanding of the impact of iceberg drift on the environment, and particularly theimpact on ocean stratification and mixing, is essential to understanding the abrupt global climatechanges witnessed by proxy during the Ice Age and future greenhouse warming. Morespecifically, the study will generate a knowledge base useful for the better management ofantarctic logistical resources that can occasionally be influenced by the adverse effects icebergshave on sea ice (the shipping lanes to McMurdo Station, for example).

Dr. Adam G. Marsh University of Delaware College of Marine Studies [email protected] http://www.ocean.udel.edu/cms/amarsh



B-029-M NSF/OPP 02-38281Station: McMurdo StationRPSC POC: Curt LaBombardResearch Site(s): McMurdo StationDates in Antarctica: Early October to late December

Genomic networks for cold-adaptation in embryos of polar marineinvertebrates



Kevin T. Fielman . Lindsay R. Kendall . Adam G. Marsh .Leonard Pace . Safiya Saweny . Tracy Szela

Research Objectives: Although the cold ocean ecosystems comprise 72 percent of Earth’sbiosphere by volume, they remain sparsely inhabited and relatively unexploited, particularly themetazoan phyla. Consequently, the few animals that can exist at this border of intracellularfreezing are ideal for exploring genomic-level processes of environmental adaptation.Understanding life at the margin will convey significant insights into the processes essential forsurvival under intense selection pressures.

Our study of adaptive mechanisms in genomic networks focuses on a system that faces aformidable challenge at cold temperatures: embryonic development of two antarcticechinoderms, the seastar Odontaster validus and the sea urchin Sterechinus neumayeri, at seawater temperatures of –1.8º C. We will quantify temperature effects on gene expression andprotein turnover networks during early development by using a Bayesian network analysis toidentify clusters of genes and proteins whose levels of expression are associated in fixed,


http://www.ocean.udel.edu/cms/amarsh

synergistic interactions. Ultimately, the question to be addressed is whether it is more or lessdifficult (complex) for an embryo to develop in an extreme environment. To answer this question,we will decipher network topologies and subnet structuring to uncover gene connectivity patternsassociated with embryonic development in this polar environment. We also intend to intereststudents in the developing field of environmental genomics by increasing the awareness ofcareer opportunities within the field and increasing the racial diversity of those attracted to it.

Working in a remote, extreme environment such as Antarctica is always a challenge, but theadventurous nature of the work can be used to establish educational and outreach componentsof high interest to both undergraduate students and the public. We will bring the experience ofworking in Antarctica to a larger audience by

+ Incorporating environmental genomics into a new bioinformatics curriculum being developed atthe University of Delaware,

+ Implementing an intern program to involve minority undergraduates in summer research in theUnited States and then to bring them to Antarctica to participate in research, and

+ Creating a K–12 education program that will bring the excitement of working in Antarctica tothe classrooms of thousands of children (in the United States and around the world) through aprogram produced in conjunction with the Marine Science Public Education Office at theUniversity of Delaware.

Dr. Douglas G. Martinson Columbia University Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory [email protected] http://iceflo.icess.ucsb.edu:8080/ice_hp.php



B-021-L NSF/OPP 02-17282Station: R/V Laurence M. GouldRPSC POC: Karl NewyearResearch Site(s): R/V Laurence M. GouldDates in Antarctica: Early January to mid February


environment


Deploying TeamMembers: Richard A. Iannuzzi . Douglas G. Martinson

Research Objectives: The modeling component of the Long Term Ecological Research (LTER)project focuses on temperature and salinity profiles of the water column at each standard stationin the study areas. The models will also include weather and navigational data such as windspeed and direction, air temperature and humidity at east station site, as well as latitude andlongitude data. Data from shipboard ADCP is also used for interpretation and checking ofgeostrophic calculations.


http://iceflo.icess.ucsb.edu:8080/ice_hp.php

Dr. Paul Mayewski Climate Change Institute Department of Earth Sciences [email protected] http://www.ume.maine.edu/USITASE/



I-153-M NSF/OPP 02-29573Station: McMurdo StationRPSC POC: Curt LaBombardResearch Site(s): McMurdo Station, US ITASE Traverse, Taylor DomeDates in Antarctica: Mid November to mid January

A science management office for the United States component ofthe International Trans Antarctic Scientific Expedition (ITASE) --

South Pole to Northern Victoria Land

Co-PIs Eric Steig and Paul Mayewski with the solar-powered 2" drill that will be used this year on thetraverse. Photo by Dan Dixon.

Deploying TeamMembers: Daniel Dixon . Thomas Neumann

Research Objectives: We will operate a science management office for a pilot ice-core drillingand analysis program to test the feasibility of obtaining well-dated, high-resolution isotope andchemistry records from East Antarctica. Shallow ice cores will be obtained from two locations:

+ 100 kilometers from the South Pole toward the Pole of Inaccessibility, as an extension of theByrd Station-to-South Pole International Trans Antarctic Scientific Expedition (ITASE) traverse;and

+ Taylor Dome, near the original deep-coring site.

AGO 3 and AGO 4 (automated geophysical observatories) may also be sampled as part of alogistics traverse to these sites.


http://www.ume.maine.edu/USITASE/

All of the cores collected will be examined at very high resolution and analyzed for major ions.Results from this calibration work, along with those from another project that is analyzing stableisotopes, will be used to help plan a larger program, with the objective of mapping the spatialexpression of climate variability in East Antarctica.

In addition, we will organize a community workshop to coordinate the second phase of U.S.ITASE, as well as one workshop a year, for 2 years, dedicated to writing and preparing scientificpapers from phase 1 of U.S. ITASE. Further, we will use satellite image mapping to select routesfor the follow-on traverse in East Antarctica. We also will produce a summary that will be madeavailable to the community to help with planning related field programs such as deep ice radar,firn radar profiling, atmospheric chemistry, ice coring, snow surface properties for satelliteobservations, ice surface elevation, and mass balance.

Dr. Diane M. McKnight University of Colorado Boulder Institute of Arctic and Alpine Research(INSTAAR) [email protected] http://huey.colorado.edu



B-421-M NSF/OPP 98-10219Station: McMurdo StationRPSC POC: Jessie CrainResearch Site(s): Dry Valleys, McMurdo StationDates in Antarctica: October to late February


a polar desert



Karen Cozzetto . Christopher L. Jaros . Justin Joslin . Diane M.McKnight

Research Objectives: This project is the flow, sediment transport, and productivity of streamscomponent of McMurdo LTER. The researchers plan to monitor the flow, sediment transport,and productivity of glacial melt streams in the McMurdo Dry Valleys.



Dr. Christopher Measures University of Hawaii Manoa [email protected]



B-225-L NSF/OPP 02–30445Station: R/V Laurence M. GouldRPSC POC: Don MichaelsonResearch Site(s): Antarctic Peninsula AreaDates in Antarctica: Mid February to mid March

Plankton community structure and iron distribution in the southernDrake Passage


Deploying TeamMembers: Christopher Measures

Research Objectives: The Shackleton Fracture Zone (SFZ) in the Drake Passage marks aboundary between low- and high-phytoplankton waters. West of the passage, waters have verylow concentrations of surface chlorophyll, and east of the SFZ, mesoscale eddy kinetic energyand chlorophyll are higher than they are west of it. Data from a 10-year survey confirm theexistence of a strong hydrographic and chlorophyll gradient in the region. We hypothesize thatbathymetry, including the 2,000-meter-deep SFZ, influences mesoscale circulation andtransport of iron, leading to the differences in phytoplankton patterns.

To test this hypothesis, we will examine phytoplankton and bacterial physiological states(including responses to iron enrichment) and the structure of plankton communities from virus tozooplankton; the concentration and distribution of iron, manganese, and aluminum; andmesoscale flow patterns near the SFZ. We will examine relationships between ironconcentrations and phytoplankton in the context of the mesoscale transport of trace nutrients to


determine how much of the variability in biomass can be attributed to iron supply, as well as themost important sources of iron east of the Drake Passage. Our goal is to better understand howplankton productivity and community structure in the Southern Ocean are affected bybathymetry, mesoscale circulation, and nutrient distributions.

We will perform rapid surface surveys of chemical, plankton, and hydrographic properties,complemented by a mesoscale station grid for vertical profiles, water sampling, and bottleincubation enrichment experiments. Manganese and aluminum distributions will help distinguishaeolian, continental shelf, and upwelling sources of iron. We will monitor the physiological stateof the phytoplankton by active fluorescence methods sensitive to iron limitation. Concentrationsof pigment, carbon, and nitrogen will be obtained by analysis of filtered samples, cell sizedistributions by flow cytometry, and species identification by microscopy. We will measureprimary production and photosynthesis parameters (absorption, quantum yields, variablefluorescence) with depth profiles, surface surveys, and bulk samples from enrichmentexperiments. We will also determine the abundance of viruses and bacteria and ascertainwhether bacterial production is limited by iron or organic carbon sources.

We aim to improve scientific understanding of processes controlling iron distribution and theresponse of plankton communities in the Southern Ocean. Moreover, we will have anundergraduate and teacher outreach component and plan to create an Web site and K–12curricular modules.

Dr. Stephen B. Mende University of California Berkeley Space Sciences Laboratory [email protected]



A-104-S NSF/OPP 02-30428Station: South Pole StationRPSC POC: Charles KaminskiResearch Site(s): South Pole StationDates in Antarctica: Mid December to late January

Dayside auroral imaging at South Pole

Dayside auroral imaging at South Pole. Photo by CharlesKaminski.

Deploying TeamMembers: Stephen B. Mende

Research Objectives: We plan to operate two ground-based imagers at South Pole Station andcombine their observations with simultaneous global auroral observations by the IMAGE (Imagerfor Magnetopause to Aurora Global Exploration) spacecraft investigating temporal and spatialeffects in the ionosphere from the reconnection processes at the magnetopause. The SouthPole has advantages for auroral imaging because the continuous darkness during the winterallows 24 hours of optical observations and because the ideal magnetic latitude permitsobservation of the dayside aurora. The reconnection (merging) region of the magnetosphereprovides the most significant entry point for solar wind plasma. It is now widely accepted that thedayside region contains the footprint of field lines that participate in reconnection processes withthe interplanetary field.

Although there is a body of literature about the auroral footprints of the dayside reconnectionregion derived from ground-based observations, it has not been possible to relate those resultsto simultaneous global auroral images. Global observations of proton auroras from the IMAGE


spacecraft have provided direct images of the footprint of the reconnection region, showing thatreconnection occurs continuously and that the spatial distribution of the precipitation followstheoretically predicted behavior as a function of the interplanetary field. The apogee of theIMAGE spacecraft orbit is slowly drifting south, and during the austral winter of 2004, theapogee will be over the Southern Hemisphere. Thus, it will be possible to obtain simultaneousglobal images of the aurora by IMAGE and of the high-latitude dayside region by two ground-based imagers (electron and proton auroras) at South Pole Station.

Our main goal is to capitalize on this unique opportunity and use the IMAGE satellite as thetelescope and the ground-based imagers as the microscope for these observations in an attemptto better understand substorms and related phenomena. Understanding the Earth'selectromagnetic environment is key to predicting space weather and to determining howgeoactive magnetic storms are. We will continue to involve students in every phase of theprogram, thereby encouraging some of them to start a career in upper-atmospheric research.

Dr. Molly F. Miller Vanderbilt University Department of Geology [email protected]



G-094-M NSF/OPP 01-26146Station: McMurdo StationRPSC POC: Melissa RiderResearch Site(s): McMurdo Station, Beardmore GlacierDates in Antarctica: Early November to mid January

Late Paleozoic-Mesozoic fauna, environment, climate, and basinalhistory: Beardmore Glacier area, Tranantarctic Mountains



Timothy Cully . Peter P. Flaig . John L. Isbell . Nicole

Knepprath . Zelinda Koch . Molly F. Miller . Christian A. Sidor

Research Objectives: We will investigate paleoenvironmental conditions during the latePaleozoic and Mesozoic in central interior Antarctica. The 4-kilometer-thick sequence ofsedimentary rocks in the Beardmore Glacier area, known as the Beacon Supergroup, records90 million years of Permian through Jurassic history of this high-paleolatitude sector ofGondwanaland. The sequence accumulated in a foreland basin with a rate of subsidenceapproximately equal to the rate of deposition. The deposits have yielded diverse vertebratefossils, fossil forests, and exceptionally well preserved plant fossils that give a unique glimpse ofglacial, lake, and stream/river environments and ecosystems and provide an unparalleled recordof the depositional, paleoclimatic, and tectonic history of the area.

We plan to integrate sedimentologic, paleontologic, and ichnologic observations to answer thefollowing focused questions:


+ What are the stratigraphic architecture and alluvial facies of Upper Permian to Jurassic rocksin the Beardmore Glacier area?

+ In what tectonostratigraphic setting were these rocks deposited?

+ Did vertebrates inhabit the cold, near-polar Permian floodplains, as indicated by vertebrateburrows, and can these burrows be used to identify for the first time the presence of small earlymammals in Mesozoic deposits?

+ How did bottom-dwelling animals in lakes and streams use substrate ecospace, how didecospace use at these high paleolatitudes differ from use in equivalent environments at lowpaleolatitudes, and what does burrow distribution reveal about the seasonality of river flow andthus about paleoclimate?

Answers to these questions will

+ Clarify the paleoclimatic, basinal, and tectonic history of this part of Gondwanaland;

+ Elucidate the colonization of near-polar ecosystems by vertebrates;

+ Provide new information on the environmental and paleolatitudinal distributions of earlymammals; and

+ Allow semiquantitative assessment of the activity and abundance of bottom-dwelling animalsin different freshwater environments at high and low latitudes.

We expect this project to contribute significantly to an understanding of paleobiology andpaleoecology on a high-latitude floodplain during a time in Earth’s history when the climate wasmuch different than it is today.

Dr. B. Greg Mitchell University of Hawaii Manoa Scripps Institution of Oceanography [email protected] http://www.spg.ucsd.edu



B-228-L NSF/OPP 02-30445Station: R/V Laurence M. GouldRPSC POC: Don MichaelsonResearch Site(s): R/V Laurence M. Gould, Drake PassageDates in Antarctica: Mid February to mid March




Farooq Azam . Katherine Barbeau . Sarah Gille . Christopher

D. Hewes . Osmund Holm-Hansen . B. Greg Mitchell . HailiWang


To test this hypothesis, we will examine phytoplankton and bacterial physiological states(including responses to iron enrichment) and the structure of plankton communities from virus tozooplankton; the concentration and distribution of iron, manganese, and aluminum; andmesoscale flow patterns near the SFZ. We will examine relationships between iron


http://www.spg.ucsd.edu/

concentrations and phytoplankton in the context of the mesoscale transport of trace nutrients todetermine how much of the variability in biomass can be attributed to iron supply, as well as themost important sources of iron east of the Drake Passage. Our goal is to better understand howplankton productivity and community structure in the Southern Ocean are affected bybathymetry, mesoscale circulation, and nutrient distributions.



Dr. Robert M. Morse University of Wisconsin Madison [email protected] http://amanda.uci.edu/



A-130-S NSF/OPP 99-80474Station: South Pole StationRPSC POC: Charles KaminskiResearch Site(s): South Pole StationDates in Antarctica: Mid November to mid February

Antarctic Muon And Neutrino Detector Array (AMANDA)

Antarctic Muon And Neutrino Detector Array(AMANDA)


Markus Ackermann . Jens Christopher Ahrens . Elisa Bernardini

. David Z. Besson . Collin Blaise . David J. Boersma .Christian I. Bohm . Thomas T. Burgess . Steve T. Churchwell .Anna Kristina Davour . Thomas Feser . Terry B. Hannaford .Klaus Helbing . Marc Hellwig . Per Olof Hulth . Albrecht Karle .Martin Kestel . Ilya V. Kravchenko . Alf Timo Messarius .Robert M. Morse . Jiwoo Nam . Robert Paulos . Steffen Richter

. Matthius Lueuthold . Darryn Schneider . Michael Stamatikos .Robert G. Stokstad . Karl-Heinz Sulanke . Lars Thollander .Wolfgang Wagner . You-Ren Wang . Michael Whitney .Christin Wiedemann


http://amanda.uci.edu/

Research Objectives: Neutrinos are elementary particles, with no electrical charge, and verylittle mass. They are very penetrating, interacting rarely with other particles. Low energyneutrinos have been detected from the sun and from Supernova 1987a in the Large MagellanicCloud -- to date the only sources of extra-terrestrial neutrinos. The primary goal of the AMANDAexperiment is to detect the expected sources of high energy neutrinos from cosmic objects suchas active galaxies, pulsars, neutron stars, blazars, and gamma-ray bursts. If the presentunderstanding of the acceleration mechanisms in these objects are correct, gamma-ray burstsshould be copious emitters of neutrinos.

AMANDA is the largest detector of neutrinos in the world. Over the last five seasons, the projecthas drilled an array of holes in the ice 1 to 2 kilometers deep and installed over 600photomultiplier tubes with "strings" of instrument suspended inside. The ice at South Pole is soclear that the tubes can detect Cherenkov radiation from several hundred meters away.Cherenkov radiation, visible as a blue glow, is emitted by collisions of high-energy neutrinos withice or rock.

There are currently 26 strings in the ice, each hard-wired to computers in the Martin A.Pomerantz Observatory (MAPO) facility. The computers analyze the gigabytes of collected datato determine true neutrino events.

Only in recent years has it become technically possible to build such large neutrino detectors. Asone of the first of this new generation, AMANDA promises to make seminal contributions to thenew field of high energy neutrino astronomy.

Dr. Jerry L. Mullins United States Geological Survey Geographic Sciences [email protected]



G-052-M/P/S NSF/OPP 02-33246Station: McMurdo Station, Palmer StationRPSC POC: Jessie CrainResearch Site(s): Cape Roberts, Dry Valleys, Ross Island, Fishtail PointDates in Antarctica: Late October to mid January

Geodesy and geospatial program



Angel L. Gonzalez . Donald B. Grant . Cheryl A. Hallam . Larry

D. Hothem . Jerry Mullins

Research Objectives: Geodetic surveying, aerial photography, remote sensing (principallyusing several varieties of satellite imagery), and mapping are all activities necessary for thesuccessful operation of a multifaceted scientific and exploration effort in Antarctica. The U.S.Geological Survey provides these support activities to the U.S. Antarctic Research Program.

Year-round data acquisition, cataloging, and data dissemination activities will continue in theU.S. Antarctic Resource Center for geospatial information. Field surveys will be conducted insupport of specific research projects, and as part of a continuing program to collect the ground-control data necessary to transform existing geodetic data to an earth-centered system suitablefor future satellite mapping programs.

LandSat data will be collected as part of satellite image mapping activities. This will permitcontinued publication of additional 1:50,000 scale topographic maps in the McMurdo Dry Valleysregion. Such topographic studies provide a uniform base map on which to ensure that scientific


information (from geology, glaciology, biology and other areas) is spatially accurate. These, aswell as the satellite image maps, are used by scientists to plan and execute future researchwork. Spatially-referenced, digital cartographic data will be produced in tandem with thepublished maps.

In the austral summer of 2001-2002, this group will collaborate with NASA's AirborneTopographic Mapper Program to collect very high-resolution elevation data in portions of theMcMurdo Dry Valleys and vicinity. The detailed land surface characterizations will be tested forfeature recognition in the Beacon Valley, glacier studies in the Taylor Valley, and geologicapplications in the Mt. Discovery area. The data will be tested for positional accuracy andresampled to provide regularly spaced observations for use in models and science. The USGSteam will work with selected scientists to develop elevation data at resolutions that best servetheir research needs. The data will then be used to develop elevation models at a variety ofresolutions.

Very high-resolution data also will be collected for use by the ICESat (Ice, Cloud, and LandElevation Satellite) research community to calibrate their 70-meter elevation data in Antarctica.The McMurdo Dry Valleys comprise a primary site for calibration and validation of NASA'sICESat satellite, scheduled for launch in December 2001. The primary sensor on ICESat is alaser altimeter, designed to measure the surface elevation very precisely, within the 70-meterfootprint of the laser. Because the altimeter will be operated with off-nadir pointing, it is equallyimportant to calibrate for mounting angle as well as for range. A calibration site for such a sensorrequires precise knowledge of local topography, which must be a stable, snow-free surfaceregion with minimal vegetation. Angle calibration is also enhanced if you have variable surfaceslopes of moderately large amplitude (10-20 degrees). With accurately measured surfaceelevations, the Dry Valleys provide a nearly ideal calibration site for ICESat. Furthermore, theDry Valleys are in the region of the maximum altitude for the orbit of ICESat, allowingmeasurement errors to be detected through comparisons with measurements from other parts ofthe world. No other site in the world can provide this unique combination of features.

Dr. Frank J. Murcray University of Denver Department of Physics & Astronomy [email protected]



A-255-M/S NSF/OPP 02-30370Station: McMurdo Station, South PoleStationRPSC POC: Charles KaminskiResearch Site(s): Arrival Heights, South Pole StationDates in Antarctica: Late November to late December

Infrared measurements of atmospheric composition overAntarctica


Deploying TeamMembers: Pierre F. Fogal . Toufic M. Hawat . John R. Olson

Research Objectives: Using passive infrared instruments, we will measure year-roundatmospheric chemistry to acquire better data for the photochemical transport models used topredict ozone depletion and climate change. The ozone hole has shown how sensitive thesouthern polar stratosphere is to chlorine, and although gradual healing of the hole is expected,model predictions indicate a possible delay in recovery because of the impact of global warmingon the catalytic ozone destruction process.

Since most satellite instruments do not sample the polar regions in the winter, ground-basedinstruments can make important contributions, and the data from our instruments would alsoprovide validation for new satellite sensors. We will install two spectrometers, one at South PoleStation and another at McMurdo Station for year-round operation, and a solar spectrometer atSouth Pole Station for summer operation. Also, we will collaborate with and receive data from


the New Zealand National Institute for Water and Air Research, which operates a similar solarspectrometer at Arrival Heights. During the polar night, two instruments will provide importantinformation on nitric acid and denitrification, as well as dehydration, and high-resolution spectrafrom which we will derive vertical profiles, vertical column amounts of many molecules importantin the ozone destruction process, and atmospheric tracers. Specifically, we will derive year-round column abundance measurements of nitric acid, methane, ozone, water, nitrous oxide, thechlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), and nitrogen dioxide.

The solar instruments will provide some altitude profile information about those molecules andothers. The data set we obtain will be used to determine the current state of nitrogen oxidepartitioning; to measure denitrification, vapor profiles in the stratosphere, and dehydration; todetermine current CFC and stratospheric chlorine levels; and to gain more insight into vortex-related chemical and dynamic effects.

In addition, the data will allow photochemical transport modelers to compare outputs with actualmeasurements, especially at intermediate stages. As the recovery from ozone destructionbegins, it is important to have a data set that comprehensively covers the major constituents ofboth the catalytic ozone destruction sequence and global warming, in order to place the relativeinfluence of the two mechanisms in perspective.

Dr. Dietrich Müller University of Chicago Astronomy and Astrophysics, EnricoFermi Institute [email protected] http://tracer.uchicago.edu/



A-125-M NSF/OPP NSF/NASA agreementStation: McMurdo StationRPSC POC: Curt LaBombardResearch Site(s): McMurdo Station, Williams FieldDates in Antarctica: Late October to mid February

Tracer-Lite II: Transition Radiation Array for Cosmic EnergeticRadiation, a balloon borne instrument



Maximo Ave . Patrick (Jojo) Boyle . Eugene Drag . Andrew

Frederic Romero-Wolf . Jöerg Hörandel . Wayne Johnson .Gary (gak) Kelderhouse . Dietrich Müller . Richard Northrop .Dave Pernic . Andrew Romero-Wolf . Simon Swordy . Mark

Thoma . Scott Wakely

Research Objectives: The origin of high-energy cosmic rays remains a mystery. To solve thismystery, it is important to know the energy spectrum of cosmic rays at the source, which isknown to be different from the observed energy spectrum, at least over a narrow range ofenergies. Examining the chemical composition of cosmic rays at high energies provides the onlymeans of determining the cosmic ray spectrum at the source. The steeply falling energyspectrum of cosmic rays requires long observation times with large detectors. The TransitionRadiation Array for Cosmic Energetic Radiation (TRACER) was constructed for long-durationballoon flights around the polar circle. It will study the abundance of elements from oxygen to


http://tracer.uchicago.edu/

iron in the cosmic ray spectrum up to approximately 10 tera electron volts/nucleon. Suchinformation can be used to constrain models of cosmic ray propagation and acceleration.

The instrument requires careful handling and storage. During its trip from Port Hueneme toWilliams Field, its temperature must remain between 0° C and +40° C. Project members willarrive in Antarctica at intervals as the mission unfolds: one will arrive early to help unload,transport, and store the instrument. Then, others will arrive to unpack it and prepare it for flight.Once that stage is complete, different personnel will be responsible for monitoring the flight.After the flight, still other personnel will take part in the recovery phase, dismantle theinstrument, and pack it for return shipment to Port Hueneme.

Mr. Ron Naveen Oceanites, Inc. [email protected]



B-086-E NSF/OPP 02-30069Station: Special ProjectRPSC POC: John EvansResearch Site(s): Petermann Island field campDates in Antarctica: Mid November to mid February

Long-term data collection at select Antarctic Peninsula visitor sites


Deploying TeamMembers: Rosemary Dagit . Steven Forrest . Ronald Naveen

Research Objectives: The Antarctic Site Inventory Project has collected biological data andsite-descriptive information in the Antarctic Peninsula since 1994. This research has provideddata on sites visited by tourists on shipboard expeditions in the region. Our aim is to obtain dataon the population of several key species of antarctic seabirds that might be affected by thecumulative impact of visits to the sites. We will focus on two heavily visited Antarctic Peninsulasites: Paulet Island, in the northwestern Weddell Sea, and Petermann Island, in the LemaireChannel near Anvers Island. We selected these sites because both rank among the 10 mostvisited sites in Antarctica each year in terms of numbers of visitors and zodiac landings, both arediverse in species composition, and both are sensitive to potential environmental disruptionsfrom visitors.

We will collect data over 5 years on two important biological parameters for penguins and blue-eyed shags:

+ Breeding population size (number of occupied nests) and


+ Breeding success (number of chicks per occupied nest).

Our main focus will be Petermann Island, which we selected for intensive study because of itsvisitor status and location near Palmer Station. This will allow us to compare data with thePalmer Long-Term Ecological Research Program.

We will collect demographic data in accordance with the standard methods established by theConvention for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources Ecosystem MonitoringProgram, and the information we gather will thus be comparable with similar data sets beingcompiled by the research programs of other Antarctic Treaty nations. While separating human-induced change from change resulting from a combination of environmental factors will bedifficult, this work will provide a first step toward identifying potential impacts. The long-term datasets we compile will contribute to a better understanding of biological processes in the entireregion and will also contribute valuable information to be used by Antarctic Treaty nations asthey address environmental stewardship issues in Antarctica.

Dr. Patrick J. Neale Smithsonian Institution Smithsonian Environmental Research Center [email protected] http://www.serc.si.edu/uvb/Ross_Sea_index.htm




Interactive effects of UV radiation and vertical mixing onphytoplankton and bacterioplankton in the Ross Sea



Linda Franklin . Jenna Lempa . Patrick J. Neale . Jill A.

Peloquin . Cristina Sobrino


A number of studies suggest that vertical mixing can significantly modify the impact of UVradiation. However, the limited measurements of turbulence intensity in the surface layer thathave been done have not been integrated with parallel studies of the effects of UV radiation on



phytoplankton and bacterioplankton. To address these issues, we will focus on vertical mixingand UV radiation in the Ross Sea and characterize phytoplankton and bacterioplanktonresponses in both laboratory and solar incubations. These studies will lead to biologicalweighting functions and response models capable of predicting the impact of UV radiation onphotosynthesis, bacterial incorporation, and DNA damage in the surface layer.




Dr. Gabrielle A. Nevitt University of California Davis Neurobiology, Physiology & Behavior [email protected]



B-035-E NSF/OPP 02-29775Station: Special ProjectRPSC POC: John EvansResearch Site(s): Reunion Island, Kerguelen RegionDates in Antarctica: Late November to late January

The development of olfactory foraging strategies in antarcticprocellariiform seabirds

A "sleeping" blue petrel chick is tested for its responseto an odourant on Kerguelen Island in the australsummer of 2001. Photo by Simon Chamaille.

Deploying TeamMembers: Gabrielle A. Nevitt

Research Objectives: Procellariiform seabirds (petrels, albatrosses, and shearwaters) aredistinguished by their acute sense of smell. These birds have pelagic lifestyles and forage overthousands of miles of ocean to find patchily distributed resources. We will study the developmentof olfactory sensitivity in burrow-nesting procellariiform seabirds within the KerguelenArchipelago and will explore the hypothesis that during development, chicks become tuned toodors associated with feeding in a manner analogous to olfactory imprinting.

We have three primary objectives:

+ First, we will use videotape documentation to characterize the behavioral responses of chicksto two prey-related odors (dimethylsulfide and cod-liver oil), one novel odor (phenyl ethyl alcoholor rose scent), and burrow-related odors (burrow and colony dirt).

+ Second, we will determine whether chicks can learn odor cues by exposing them to a non-


prey-related odor during the egg stage and then testing for increased sensitivity to that odorafter they hatch.

+ Third, we will quantify key behavioral responses induced when a chick is exposed to an odorplume within a portable wind flume.

Only a handful of studies have addressed the olfactory abilities of procellariiform seabirds orindeed any bird. Results from our research will be among the first to address the development ofolfaction in an ecologically important context. Overall, these results will greatly extend ourknowledge of the foraging ecology of these fascinating birds. Such knowledge is not only usefulto basic science, but it may also help bolster efforts to ensure the conservation ofprocellariiforms, given the threatened or endangered status of many species.

Our work will include research experience for a graduate student and an active internationalcollaboration with the French Institute for Polar Research and Technology. Furthermore, ourresults may be transferable to other potentially important organisms, such as salmon andinsects, where understanding the developmental stages of olfaction has commercial importance.

Dr. Giles Novak Northwestern University Department of Physics and Astronomy [email protected] http://lennon.astro.northwestern.edu/




Mapping galactic magnetic fields with SPARO

Mapping galactic magnetic fields with SPARO


Megan M. Krejny . Hua-Bai Li . Robert F. Loewenstein . Giles

Novak . Robert J. Pernic

Research Objectives: The submillimeter polarimeter for antarctic observations (SPARO) mapsinterstellar magnetic fields by measuring the linear polarization of submillimeter thermal emissionfrom magnetically aligned interstellar dust grains. Interstellar magnetic fields are generallydifficult to observe, especially in the dense regions to which SPARO is most sensitive. It isimportant to study these fields because their energy density is comparable to that of the otherphysical ingredients that are found in interstellar regions, so they can play important roles in thephysical processes that occur there. This program is designed to contribute to our understandingof two general problems in which interstellar gas (and thus probably also magnetic fields) playsimportant roles: The study of the Galactic Center region and star formation.

The study of the super-massive black holes that are found at the centers of many galaxies ismotivated in part by the desire to understand the behavior of nature in such extremeenvironments and in part by the likely influence of these active galactic nuclei on the evolution ofgalaxies and perhaps of the Universe. Magnetic fields in star-forming regions may also help


http://lennon.astro.northwestern.edu/

support star-forming clouds against gravity, or they may help clouds collapse via angularmomentum transfer.

The SPARO instrument is operated on the Viper 2-meter telescope at the South Pole.Observations are carried out by personnel who remain there for the 8-month winter when SouthPole Station is inaccessible. These observations are complementary to submillimeterpolarimetry that is being carried out by larger telescopes at Mauna Kea, but SPARO is muchmore sensitive to submillimeter emissions because of the exceptionally good atmospheretransmission and the stability of the winter skies over the Antarctic Plateau.

Therefore, these observations are specifically aimed at (a) confirming SPARO’s recent discoveryof a large-scale toroidal magnetic field at the Galactic Center, (b) testing a magnetic outflowmodel for the Galactic Center Lobe, a radio structure possibly tracing gas that has been ejectedfrom the galactic nucleus, and (c) mapping large-scale magnetic fields in a sample of star-forming clouds to study the relationship between the elongated shapes of these clouds and theirmagnetic fields.

Dr. Lawrence A. Palinkas University of California San Diego Department of Family and PreventiveMedicine [email protected]



B-321-M/S NSF/OPP 00-90343Station: McMurdo Station, South PoleStationRPSC POC: Charles KaminskiResearch Site(s): McMurdo Station, South Pole StationDates in Antarctica: Early November to late January

Prevention of environment-induced decrements in mood andcognitive performance


Deploying TeamMembers: Lawrence A. Palinkas . Kathleen R. Reedy . Marc Shepanek

Research Objectives: Cognitive performance degrades with residence in Antarctica, and moodalteration fits a seasonal pattern during extended residence. Although these changes suggestpsychological responses to physiological adaptations to cold and dim light, the exactmechanisms are poorly understood. The first objective is to determine whether long-termexposure to cold temperatures and/or to dim light is associated with significant changes incognitive performance and emotional well-being:

+ Is physiological adaptation to cold and/or adaptation to dim light independently orsynergistically associated with decrements in cognitive performance and emotional well-being?

+ Do personnel at South Pole Station experience greater physiological adaptation anddecrements than personnel at McMurdo Station?


This group will also determine whether these decrements can be prevented or minimized bypharmacologic interventions and/or phototherapy:

+ What are the effects of combining liothyronine sodium with levothyroxine sodium versussupplementation with tyrosine (a precursor to both thyroid hormone and catecholamines) anddaily phototherapy?

+ Is phototherapy used in combination with a pharmacologic agent more effective than eitherintervention used alone?

In phase I, project team members will establish computer-testing protocols, develop an effectiveplacebo capsule, package the necessary drugs, and test the validity and reliability of computer-administered cognition and mood protocols with 30 hypothyroid outpatients on constant thyroidhormone replacement and 30 age- and sex-matched healthy controls in New Zealand.

In phase II, 50 members of the 2002 winter (v) crews, 35 at McMurdo Station and 15 at SouthPole Station, will be randomized in a double-blind crossover design into 1 of 2 treatment groups(20 subjects in each group) and 1 control group (10 subjects). Baseline measurements will beconducted, and treatment groups will be switched after a 1-month washout period. Mood andmemory testing will comprise 5 assessments over 12 months. Treatments consist of 50micrograms (mcg) of levothyroxine sodium plus 12.5 mcg of liothyronine per day, 150 milligramsper kilogram of tyrosine per day, and a placebo.

In phase III, a similar design will be used to evaluate the effectiveness of phototherapy, aloneand in combination with the more effective of the two pharmacologic interventions.

This research will lead to an improved understanding of the specific environmental conditionsand physiological mechanisms that affect behavior and performance in the Antarctic, helpdevelop countermeasures for circannual oscillations of mood and cognitive performance, andcontribute to a reduction in accidental injuries at high latitudes.

Dr. David Petzel Creighton University School of Medicine [email protected]



B-012-M NSF/OPP 02-29462Station: McMurdo StationRPSC POC: Jessie CrainResearch Site(s): McMurdo StationDates in Antarctica: Late August to late December

Drinking and sodium/potasium-ATPase alpha-subunit isoformexpression in antarctic fish



Philip R. Brauer . John Morrison . Anne Petzel . David Petzel .Margaret Scofield . Patricia Waldron

Research Objectives: Nototheniid fishes inhabiting the near-freezing (–2ºC) waters ofMcMurdo Sound have some of the highest serum and cellular sodium concentrations and thelowest gill sodium/potassium-ATPase (Na/K-ATPase, the sodium/potassium pump) activities ofany marine teleost. The enzyme Na/K-ATPase regulates the sodium concentration in the cells ofmany organisms. Maintaining a high salt content in the cells of these fish lowers the freezingpoint to allow them to inhabit cold antarctic waters and reduces the salt gradient between themand the sea water.

On the basis of previous studies of temperature effects, we hypothesize that compared withNew Zealand nototheniids that inhabit warmer waters, antarctic nototheniids have lower drinkingrates, lower salt excretion rates, and a higher proportion of the low intracellular sodium affinityfor a specific subunit of the Na/K-ATPase (a3-isoform). These unique osmoregulatory propertiesexplain the high serum and cellular sodium concentrations found in nototheniids south of the


antarctic Polar Front. We will compare and contrast the unique osmoregulatory mechanisms ofantarctic and New Zealand nototheniids with respect to

+ Sea water drinking rates and the serum and cellular chemical composition of the fish,

+ Enzymatic properties and the expression pattern of mRNA and protein, and

+ Temporal and spatial localization of the Na/K-ATPase a3-isoform subunit in the gills.

To accomplish these objectives, we will study four species of nototheniids, representingecologically diverse habits above and below the Polar Front.

The information we gain will increase our knowledge about the role of Na/K-ATPase in thecellular function in many organisms, strengthen our understanding of the biochemical andphysiological adaptations that allow antarctic nototheniids to survive and thrive in the ice-ladenwaters south of the antarctic Polar Front, provide field and laboratory research experience forgraduate and undergraduate students, and contribute to significant outreach activities in scienceeducation for elementary and high school students and teachers.

Dr. Paul J. Ponganis Scripps Institution of Oceanography CMBB-0204 [email protected]



B-197-M NSF/OPP 02-29638Station: McMurdo StationRPSC POC: Charles KaminskiResearch Site(s): McMurdo Sound, Cape Crozier, Beaufort Islands, Cape WashingtonDates in Antarctica: Early October to mid December

Diving physiology and behavior of emperor penguins

Emperor penguin exiting the experimental dive hole atthe penguin ranch in the 1999 field season. Photo byPaul Ponganis.


Yoshiaki Habara . Justin Heil . Gerald Kooyman . Gregory

Marshall . Katherine Ponganis . Paul J. Ponganis . Katsufumi

Sato . Torre (Knower) Stockard . Phil Thorson

Research Objectives: The emperor penguin, Aptenodytes forsteri, is the premier avian diverand a top predator in the antarctic ecosystem. The routine occurrence of 500-meter dives duringforaging trips is a physiological and behavioral enigma. We will attempt to determine how andwhy emperor penguins dive as deeply and long as they do by examining four major topics:pressure tolerance, management of oxygen stores, end-organ tolerance of divinghypoxemia/ischemia, and deep-dive foraging behavior. These subjects are relevant to the role ofthe emperor as a top predator in the antarctic ecosystem and to critical concepts in divingphysiology, including decompression sickness, nitrogen narcosis, shallow water blackout,hypoxemic tolerance, and extension of aerobic dive time.

We will test the following hypotheses:


+ Prevention of nitrogen narcosis and decompression sickness in emperor penguins is due toinhibition of pulmonary gas exchange at depth.

+ Shallow water blackout does not occur because of greater cerebral hypoxemic tolerance and,in deep dives, because of resumption of pulmonary gas exchange during the final ascent.

+ The rate of depletion of blood oxygen stores is a function of the depth of the dive and the heartrate.

+ The aerobic dive limit reflects the onset of lactate accumulation in locomotory muscle, not totaldepletion of all oxygen stores.

+ Elevation of tissue antioxidant capacity and free-radical scavenging enzyme activities protectagainst the ischemia and reperfusion that routinely occur during diving.

+ During deep dives, the antarctic silverfish, Pleuoragramma antarcticum, is the primary prey.

In addition to evaluating these hypotheses, we will cooperate with U.S. and foreignorganizations such as the National Institute of Polar Research in Japan, Centro deInvestigaciones del Noroeste in Mexico, National Geographic, University of Texas SouthwesternMedical Center, and Sea World. Our work will be featured in National Geographic televisiondocumentaries that will provide unique educational opportunities for the general public.

Development of state-of-the-art technology (e.g., blood oxygen electrode recorders, bloodsamplers, and miniaturized digital cameras) will lay the groundwork for future research.Moreover, during our planned fieldwork at several Ross Sea colonies, we will continue toevaluate the effects of the B–15 iceberg on the breeding success of emperor penguins by takingpopulation censuses.

Dr. John C. Priscu Montana State University Bozeman Land Resources and Environmental Sciences [email protected] http://www.homepage.montana.edu/~lkbonney/



B-195-M NSF/OPP MCB 02-37335Station: McMurdo StationRPSC POC: Jessie CrainResearch Site(s): Dry Valleys, McMurdo StationDates in Antarctica: Mid October to late December

Microbial diversity and function in the permanently ice-coveredlakes of the McMurdo Dry Valleys



Deborah O. Jung . Michael T. Madigan . Joel L. Moore . John

C. Priscu . William M. Sattley

Research Objectives: We plan to study prokaryotic organisms in the permanently ice-coveredlakes of the McMurdo Dry Valleys in order to identify and characterize novel organisms andelucidate those aspects of their genome and metabolism that are critical to understanding theirrole in biogeochemical cycles. We will use molecular tools in concert with conventional and high-throughput culturing techniques to define representative prokaryotic groups responsible for thecontemporary geochemical gradients existing in these lakes.

The McMurdo Dry Valleys form the driest and coldest ecosystem on Earth and, until relativelyrecently, have been thought to harbor little life. A primary reason for establishing a microbialobservatory for these lakes is to understand not only how the environment controls the diversityof organisms, but also how diversity itself controls the way ecosystems function. The McMurdoDry Valley lake systems lend themselves to answering this question in a unique way. Given theirisolation, the lack of higher life forms, and their evolutionary history, these lakes offer a unique


http://www.homepage.montana.edu/~lkbonney/

experimental arena to search for novel microorganisms and to study the interplay of microbialdiversity and ecosystem function.

The results we derive will be significant to the growing body of literature in biodiversity,biotechnology, geobiology, polar ecology, and astrobiology. We will work with existing and newprograms to archive the phylogenetic and physiological data we collect so that anyone who isinterested can access it easily over the Internet. Strong linkages will be made with the highlyvisible education, outreach, and human diversity programs supported by the National ScienceFoundation’s Office of Polar Programs and the McMurdo Long-Term Ecological ResearchProgram to yield a project that will have a broad impact on society.

Dr. John C. Priscu Montana State University Bozeman Land Resources and Environmental Sciences [email protected] http://www.homepage.montana.edu/~lkbonney



B-422-M NSF/OPP 98-10219Station: McMurdo StationRPSC POC: Jessie CrainResearch Site(s): Dry Valleys, McMurdo StationDates in Antarctica: Mid October to late December


a polar desert

Helicopter putting in the field team at Lake Vida whenthe temperature was -48 C.


Kerry McKenna . Jill Mikucki . John C. Priscu . Alexandre

Tsapin . Christine Foreman

Research Objectives: This project is the lake pelagic and benthic productivity and microbialfood webs component of McMurdo LTER. The group will continue measurements of biological,chemical, and physical limnological properties of Dry Valley lakes, with special emphasis onLTER core research areas. They will also measure other parameters relevant to modeling theTaylor Valley Lake Ecosystems.


http://www.homepage.montana.edu/~lkbonney

Dr. Langdon B. Quetin University of California Santa Barbara Marine Science Institute [email protected] http://www.icess.ucsb.edu/lter



B-028-L/P NSF/OPP 02-17282Station: R/V Laurence M. Gould, PalmerStationRPSC POC: Rob EdwardsResearch Site(s): R/V Laurence M. Gould, Palmer StationDates in Antarctica: Early January to mid February


environment

Palmer Long Term Ecological Research Project:Climate, ecological migration, and teleconnections inan ice-dominated environment (prey component)


Brian Cheng . Kristen Green . Alison Haupt . Amy Kaiser .Daniel Martin . Langdon B. Quetin . Robin Ross . Shannon

Talley . Jason Watts

Research Objectives: The zooplankton component of the Long Term Ecological Research(LTER) project is concerned with investigating and defining seasonal scale processes in krilldemography and distribution in relation to the abiotic and biotic environment.


http://www.icess.ucsb.edu/lter

Dr. Paul R. Renne Berkeley Geochronology Center [email protected]



G-064-M NSF/OPP 01-25194Station: McMurdo StationRPSC POC: Melissa RiderResearch Site(s): Beacon Valley, McMurdo StationDates in Antarctica: Mid December to late January

Calibration of cosmogenic argon production rates in Antarctica


Deploying TeamMembers: Kimberly B. Knight . Cliff Riebe

Research Objectives: Researchers intend to establish the systematics of cosmogenic argonproduction required to establish its measurement as a routine surface exposure dating toolanalogous to existing methods based on helium-3, beryllium-10, carbon-14, neon-21, andaluminum-26. Cosmogenic argon offers advantages over existing cosmogenic chronometers inthat it is stable (hence applicable to long-term or ancient exposure dating) and less prone todiffusive loss than helium or neon.

Argon-38 is produced principally by spallation of calcium and (probably) potassium, and it ismost easily measured using neutron-irradiated samples, as has been done routinely onextraterrestrial samples for decades. Initial measurements on antarctic samples demonstrate theviability of this method for terrestrial samples and suggest an average production rate of greaterthan 100 atoms/gram-calcium/year. Existing data suggest that argon-38/calcium exposure agesyounger than 105 years can be accurately determined by this method.

Further work on calcic minerals (apatite, sphene, clinopyroxene, plagioclase, calcite) whose


exposure histories are constrained by helium-3 and neon-21 concentration data will be used todetermine the calcium-derived production rate. Analogous work on potassium-rich minerals(potassium-feldspars, micas) will be used to constrain the production of argon-38 frompotassium, which should theoretically be comparable to that from calcium when the sameneutron-activation method is used.

Analytical work will use existing samples plus new samples to be collected from the dry valleysof Antarctica to maximize cosmic radiation dosage for purposes of calibration. Laboratorystudies of the retentivity of argon-38 in appropriate minerals will be used to help evaluate resultsand guide future applications.

Dr. Gregory J. Retallack University of Oregon Department of Geological Sciences [email protected] http://darkwing.uoregon.edu/%7Edogsci/retall/rsch.html



G-299-M NSF/OPP 02-30086Station: McMurdo StationRPSC POC: Melissa RiderResearch Site(s): Beardmore Glacier, McMurdo StationDates in Antarctica: Mid November to late December

Permian-Triassic mass extinction in Antarctica

Coalsack Bluff, a site for investigating the end-Permian mass extinction event. Photo by LuannBecker.


Luann Becker . Daniel P. Glavin . Christine Metzger . Shaun

M. Norman . Robert Joseph. Poreda . Gregory J. Retallack .Nathan D. Sheldon . Roger MH. Smith

Research Objectives: We will study fluvial sediments in Antarctica for evidence of what causedthe greatest mass extinction in the history of life on Earth. The Permian-Triassic boundary was,until recently, difficult to locate and thought to be unequivocally disconformable in Antarctica.New studies, however (particularly those using carbon isotopic chemostratigraphy, andpaleosols and root traces as indicators), together with improved fossil plant, reptile, and pollenbiostratigraphy, now suggest that the precise location of the boundary might be identified; thesestudies have also led to local discovery of iridium anomalies, shocked quartz, and fullerenes withextraterrestrial noble gases. These anomalies are associated with a distinctive claystone brecciabed, similar to strata known in South Africa and Australia, and accepted as evidence ofdeforestation.

There is already much evidence from Antarctica and elsewhere that the mass extinction on land


http://darkwing.uoregon.edu/%7Edogsci/retall/rsch.html

was abrupt and synchronous with extinction in the ocean. What led to such death anddestruction? Carbon isotopic values are so low in these and other Permian-Triassic boundarysections that there was likely to have been some role for catastrophic destabilization of methaneclathrates. Getting the modeled amount of methane out of likely reservoirs would require suchcatastrophic events as a meteor impact, flood-basalt eruption, or collapse of the continental-shelf, which have all been implicated in the mass extinction and for which there is independentevidence. Teasing apart these various hypotheses requires careful reexamination of beds thatappear to represent the Permian-Triassic boundary and search for more informative sequences,as was the case for the Cretaceous-Tertiary boundary.

Our research on the geochemistry and petrography of boundary beds and paleosols; on carbonisotopic variation through the boundary interval; and on fullerenes, iridiums, and helium isdesigned to test these ideas about the Permian-Triassic boundary in Antarctica and to shed lighton the processes that contributed to this largest of mass extinctions. We will conduct ourfieldwork in the central Transantarctic Mountains and in southern Victoria Land, with an initialobjective of examining the stratigraphic sequences for continuity across the boundary. Suchcontinuity is critical for the work to be successful. If fieldwork indicates sufficiently continuoussections, a full analytical program will follow.

Dr. Theodore J. Rosenberg University of Maryland Institute for Physical Science andTechnology [email protected] http://www.polar.umd.edu



A-111-M/S NSF/OPP 00-03881Station: McMurdo Station, South PoleStationRPSC POC: Doug MillerResearch Site(s): McMurdo Station, SkyLabDates in Antarctica: Early to mid December

Riometry in Antarctica and conjugate region

The University of Maryland's Imaging Riometerantenna at Arrival Heights in McMurdo, January 1998.Photo by [unknown].

Research Objectives: The University of Maryland will continue studies of the polar ionosphereand magnetosphere from Antarctica and nominally conjugate regions in the Arctic. Highfrequency (HF) cosmic noise absorption measurements (riometry) and auroral luminositymeasurements (photometry) form the basis of these investigations. However, research effortsalso involve extensive collaboration with other investigators using complementary data sets.

Riometers measure the relative opacity of the ionosphere. Working at both McMurdo and SouthPole, this group maintains and uses an imaging riometer system called IRIS (imaging riometerfor ionospheric studies), broad-beam riometers, an auroral photometers. This group has helpedto extend antarctic coverage by providing imaging riometers for the British Halley Bay and theAustralian Davis stations. The instruments work synergistically with a number of otherinstruments that are operated at all of these sites by other investigators. They also provide thedata acquisition systems at South Pole and McMurdo for the common recording of othergeophysical data and the provision of these data to collaborating investigators. To enhance theusefulness and timeliness of these data to the general scientific community, the data is madeavailable in near real time on the Internet. Imaging riometer measurements will also be


http://www.polar.umd.edu/

continued at Iqaluit, NWT, Canada, the nominal magnetic conjugate point of South Pole station.

Continuation of these activities will enable this group to participate in, and contribute to, severalmajor science initiatives, including the GEM, CEDAR, ISTP/GGS, and National Space Weatherprograms. A primary focus of the analysis activities over the next year will include coordinatedground- and satellite-based studies of Sun-Earth connection events.

These disparate activities have the common goal of enhancing understanding of the relevantphysical processes and forces that drive the observed phenomena, both internal (e.g.magnetospheric/ionospheric instabilities) and external (e.g. solar wind/IMF variations). Fromsuch knowledge may emerge an enhanced forecasting capability. Many atmospheric events canhave negative technological or societal impact, and accurate forecasting could ameliorate theseimpacts

Dr. Theodore J. Rosenberg University of Maryland Institute for Physical Science andTechnology [email protected] http://www.polar.umd.edu/ago.html



A-112-M NSF/OPP 03-34467Station: McMurdo StationRPSC POC: Doug MillerResearch Site(s): AGO 2, AGO 1, AGO 5Dates in Antarctica: Early December to mid January

Polar Experiment Network for Geophysical Upper-AtmosphericInvestigations (PENGUIN)

AGO P1 (Automatic Geophysical Observatory site P1) in January, 2003.Photo by Rick Sterling.

Deploying Team Members: Joseph Payne . Rick Sterling

Research Objectives: Continued progress in understanding the Sun's influence on the structure anddynamics of the Earth's upper atmosphere depends on increasing knowledge of the electrodynamics ofthe polar cap region and the key role this region plays in coupling the solar wind with the Earth'smagnetosphere, ionosphere, and thermosphere. Measurements that are central to understandinginclude the electric field convection pattern across the polar cap and knowledge of the response of theatmosphere to the many forms of high-latitude wave and particle energy inputs during bothgeomagnetically quiet and disturbed situations.

The U.S. automatic geophysical observatory (AGO) network, which consists of a suite of nearlyidentical instruments (optical and radio wave auroral imagers, magnetometers, and narrow- and wide-band radio receivers) at locations on the polar plateau, actively studies the coupling of the solar wind toionospheric and magnetospheric processes, emphasizing polar cap dynamics, substorm phenomena,and space weather. Among these projects are

+ An investigation that uses extreme-low -frequency and very-low-frequency waves as an observingtools to understand the electrodynamic coupling between upper-atmospheric regions and theinteraction of the magnetosphere and ionosphere


http://www.polar.umd.edu/ago.html

+ An investigation that employs autonomous, compact, and low-power atmospheric lidar instruments todetect polar stratospheric clouds and profile the overlying atmosphere

+ An investigation that uses magnetometers at conjugate sites in Antarcitca and the NorthernHemisphere to measure variations in hydromagnetic waves with the optical emissions caused bycharged particles that precipitate from the trapped radiation of the Earth into the upper atmosphere

When combined with measurements made at certain staffed stations, AGO network data facilitate bothlarge- and small-scale studies of the energetics and dynamics of the high-latitude magnetosphere. Theresearch will be carried out with in situ observations of the geospace environment by spacecraft, inclose cooperation with other nations working in Antarctica and in conjunction with studies performed inthe Northern Hemisphere.

Dr. Colin Sanderson United States Department of Energy Environmental Measurements Lab [email protected]



O-275-P/S NSF/OPP MOU with DOEStation: Palmer Station, South Pole StationRPSC POC: Rob EdwardsResearch Site(s): Palmer Station, South Pole StationDates in Antarctica: Instruments operate year-round

Remote Atmospheric Measurements Program (RAMP) of theUniversity of Miami / U.S. Department of Energy's Environmental

Measurements Lab

Remote Atmospheric Measurements Program (RAMP)of the University of Miami / U.S. Department ofEnergy's Environmental Measurements Lab

Research Objectives: Radionuclides, some of which occur naturally in the surface air, areatoms emitting radioactive energy. It is these, as well as nuclear fallout and any accidentalreleases of radioactivity, that the Environmental Measurements Laboratory's (EML's) RemoteAtmospheric Measurements Program (RAMP) is designed to detect and monitor. Since 1963,EML, as part of the U.S. Department of Energy, has run the Global Sampling Network to monitorsurface air. The RAMP system provides on-site analysis in 13 different locations around theworld, including Palmer Station. Using a high-volume aerosol sampler, a gamma rayspectrometer, and a link to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's ARGOSsatellite system, we continue sampling air at Palmer Station for anthropogenic radionuclides.


Dr. Theodore A. Scambos University of Colorado Boulder National Snow & Ice Data Center [email protected] http://nsidc.org/antarctica/megadunes



I-186-M NSF/OPP 01-25570Station: McMurdo StationRPSC POC: Jessie CrainResearch Site(s): McMurdo Station, MegadunesDates in Antarctica: Mid December to late January

Characteristics of snow megadunes and their potential effects onice core interpretation

Aerial view of the megadunes near TAMSEIS Camp(between Vostok and McMurdo). It shows the vastscale of these features. The lighter stripes areaccumulation areas, covered with rough sastrugi up to1 m in height; the gray areas are interdune 'glaze'area


Robert J. Bauer . Lawrence Cathles . Zoe R. Courville . Mark

Fahnestock . Theodore A. Scambos

Research Objectives: The extensive snow 'megadune' areas of the East Antarctic Plateauappear to be the result of intense snow-atmosphere interaction, caused by katabatic wind flow(at about 20 knots for 11 months of the year) and ablation/vapor redeposition of firn. Thefeatures are extremely subtle, 2 to 4 meters in amplitude over a 2 to 4 kilometer wavelength.January and December provides good conditions for this work, including temperatures of -25 to -30 Centigrade and lighter winds than other times of the year. Earlier field reports indicate thatthe surface of the leeward faces of the dunes is very smooth.

This group plans to conduct ground penetrating radar surveys, global positioning surveys, firncores, pit sampling, AWS (automatic weather station) installation, and snow permeabilityexperiments. The overall objective is to determine the physical and chemical characteristics ofthe dunes, and investigate whether dunes may have an effect on the interpretation of climate in


http://nsidc.org/antarctica/megadunes

deep ice cores.

Dr. Jeffrey P. Severinghaus

University of Rhode Island Graduate School of Oceanography [email protected] http://icebubbles.ucsd.edu



I-184-M NSF/OPP 02-30452Station: McMurdo StationRPSC POC: Jessie CrainResearch Site(s): McMurdo Station, MegadunesDates in Antarctica: Mid December to late January

How thick is the convective zone?: A study of firn air in themegadunes near Vostok



Lou Albershardt . Jeffrey P. Severinghaus . Makoto Suwa .Mark (Tony) A. Wumkes

Research Objectives: In the megadunes, extremely low snow accumulation rates lead tostructural changes (large grains, pipes, and cracks) that make the permeability of firn-to-airmovement orders of magnitude higher than normal. The unknown thickness of the convectivezone has hampered the interpretation of ice-core nitrogen/argon isotope ratios as indicators ofpast firn thickness, which is a key constraint on the climatically important variables oftemperature, accumulation rate, and gas age–ice age difference. We will therefore study thechemical composition of air in the snow layer (firn) in a region of megadunes near Vostok Stationto test the hypothesis that a deep convective zone of vigorous wind-driven mixing can preventgas fractionation in the upper third of the polar firn layer. Studying this extreme end-memberexample will better define the role of the convective zone in gas reconstructions.

We will pump air from a profile of about 20 depths in the firn to definitively test for the presenceof a convective zone based on how well inert gas isotopes fit a molecular- and eddy-diffusion


http://icebubbles.ucsd.edu/

model. Permeability measurements on the core and two-dimensional air flow modeling willpermit a more physically realistic interpretation of the isotope data and will relate mixing vigor toair velocities. We will also test a new proxy indicator of convective zone thickness on firn andice-core bubble air; this indicator is based on the principle that isotopes of slow-diffusing heavynoble gases (krypton, xenon) should be more affected by convection than isotopes of fast-diffusing nitrogen.

Finally, we intend to test the hypothesis that the megadunes and a deep convective zone existedat the Vostok site during glacial periods; this would explain the anomalously low nitrogen/argonisotope ratios in the Vostok ice-core glacial periods. Our work will clarify phase relationships ofgreenhouse gases and temperature in ice-core records, with implications for understanding pastand future climates.

Dr. Gulamabas G. Sivjee Embry Riddle Aeronautical University Space Physics Research Laboratory [email protected] http://www.sprl.db.erau.edu



A-129-S NSF/OPP 99-09339Station: South Pole StationRPSC POC: Charles KaminskiResearch Site(s): Aurora LaboratoryDates in Antarctica: Instruments operate year-round

Effects of enhanced solar disturbances during the 2000-2002solar-max period on the antarctic mesosphere-lower-

thermosphere (MLT) and F regions composition, thermodynamicsand dynamics

Effects of enhanced solar disturbances during the2000-2002 solar-max period on the antarcticMesosphere-Lower-Thermosphere (MLT) and Fregions composition, thermodynamics and dynamics

Deploying TeamMembers: Lisandro Martinez . Charles Mutiso . Gulamabas Sivjee

Research Objectives: Variations in the sun's energy affect people in obvious ways, forexample, driving the weather and the seasons. However, there are many cycles and variationson scales from seconds to centuries to eons that are of deeper interest to science. One of themost basic is the 11-year cycle when the sun's magnetic poles reverse direction. The 23rd cyclesince reliable observations began has just recently peaked. Coincident with this cycle, sunspotsand other solar activity are waxing to peak levels.

NASA is using this opportunity to conduct its TIMED (Thermosphere-Ionosphere-Mesosphere-Energetics and Dynamics) satellite study, focusing on the region between 60 and 180 kilometersabove the earth's surface.


http://www.sprl.db.erau.edu/

This project takes advantage of the timing of both of these events, using observations in thevisible and near-infrared ranges of upper-atmospheric emissions above South Pole Station tostudy the heating effects of auroral electrical currents in the ionosphere, as well as planetarywaves and atmospheric tides.

TIMED will provide data on the temperature, winds, and tides of earth's upper atmosphere,especially above the poles as it passes overhead. But tracking satellites often have difficultydifferentiating between variations in location or time. The South Pole ground-based observationsconducted by this group will be valuable in sorting out the time-location question.

Dr. David M. Smith University of California Berkeley [email protected] http://www.geophys.washington.edu/Space/SpaceExp/Balloon/Antarctica99/



A-144-E/M NSF/OPP ATM 02-33370Station: E/MRPSC POC: Curt LaBombardResearch Site(s): McMurdo Station, Williams FieldDates in Antarctica: Late November to early January

Development and test flight of a small, automated balloon payload forobservations of terrestrial x-rays

MAXIS balloon payload ascending from McMurdo: January 12,2000. The MINIS balloon program is a an extension of theMAXIS science, using smaller, hand-launched balloons with asmaller but better-targeted suite of instrumentation fordiscovering the cause

Deploying Team Members: Edgar A. Bering, III . Leeland Huss . MIchael Kokorowski . Robyn Millan .Brandon Reddell . John Sample . David M. Smith

Research Objectives: We plan to develop and test a balloon payload designed to detect mega electron volt (MeV)electron precipitation into the atmosphere from the Earth’s radiation belts. Relativistic electron precipitation hasbeen found to occur at high latitudes, but it is not known how common such events are, nor is much known aboutthe conditions that lead to these events. These particles endanger astronauts and unmanned satellites, but neitherthe cause of their energization nor the cause of their loss (precipitation) is well understood. The precipitation of thehighest energy electrons occurs in rare, rapid events that we will study with a balloon payload.

The instrument we will develop will be very small and lightweight, and it will include real-time data communicationsvia the Iridium satellite system. This new technology will allow a payload that can be launched on small balloons as


http://www.geophys.washington.edu/Space/SpaceExp/Balloon/Antarctica99/

well as on long-duration balloons.

Dr. Raymond C. Smith University of California Santa Barbara ICESS [email protected] http://pal.lternet.edu





environment


Deploying TeamMembers: Eli Loomis . Kim McCoy . Raymond C. Smith

Research Objectives: The bio-optical component of the Long Term Ecological Research(LTER) project focuses on the space/time variability of ecological processes. They alsoinvestigate the linkage between shipboard surface observations and satellite observationsrelevant to these various processes including sea ice coverage and phytoplankton biomass andproduction.



Dr. Walker O. Smith Virginia Institute of Marine Sciences Biological Sciences [email protected] http://www.vims.edu/bio/ivars/



B-047-M NSF/OPP 00-87401Station: McMurdo StationRPSC POC: Don MichaelsonResearch Site(s): USCG IcebreakerDates in Antarctica: Early December to late February

Interannual variability in the Antarctic-Ross Sea (IVARS): Nutrientsand seasonal production



Vernon L. Asper . Liza De Lizo . Jill A. Peloquin . Ray Pluhar .Jessie Sebbo . Amy R. Shields . Walker O. Smith . Jennifer Wu

Stanhope . Sasha Tozzi . Joseph Ustach

Research Objectives: During the last few decades, oceanographers and other scientists havefound significant variations in Southern Ocean biogeochemical processes from year to year.Some of the more significant of these inter-annual variations are ice extent and concentration,the composition of herbivore communities, and the distributions and reproductive success of birdand marine mammals.

Surprisingly, because it is so central to the food web, little is known about how phytoplanktonproduction varies from year to year or what role these variations may play. The productionsystem in the Ross Sea consists predominantly of two major functional groups - diatoms andPhaeocystis Antarctica, a colonial haptophyte. Project team members will collect time-seriesdata and assess the inter-annual variations of the production of phytoplankton in the southern


http://www.vims.edu/bio/ivars/

Ross Sea, Antarctica.

The Ross Sea provides a unique setting for such an investigation, for a number of reasons.Researchers can build upon a de facto time-series already ongoing in the Ross Sea because somany studies have been conducted there in the last decade. It is established that there are fewerspecies there (relative to some other sites) and that seasonal production is as great asanywhere in the Antarctic. Most importantly, seasonal production of both the total phytoplanktoncommunity (as well as its two functional groups) can be estimated from late summer nutrientprofiles.

Inter-annual variations in seasonal production (and of the two major taxa of producers) may bean important factor in the growth and survival of higher trophic levels within the Ross Sea foodweb. They also shed light on the natural variability of the suite of biogeochemical processes inthe region. Having a scientific handle on that baseline of change is important, because of thescientific efforts to model how climate may change in the future. As climate changes, so too willbiology be profoundly affected. Accurately modelling and evaluatihng such change meansplacing it in the context of "natural" inter-annual variability.

Dr. Todd Sowers Pennsylvania State University Environment Institute [email protected] http://www.geosc.psu.edu/~sowers/index.html



I-177-M NSF/OPP 02-30021Station: McMurdo StationRPSC POC: Jessie CrainResearch Site(s): Mount Moulton, McMurdo StationDates in Antarctica: Mid November to mid January

Refining a 500-thousand-year climate record from the Mt. Moultonblue ice field in West Antarctica

The Moulton "horizontal ice core". This blue ice regionin West Antarctica may provide a 400,000 yearclimate record with absolute radiometric age control.Photo by Nelia.Dunbar.


Nelia W. Dunbar . William C. McIntosh . Pratigya J. Polissar .Trevor Popp . Todd A. Sowers

Research Objectives: The summit crater of Mount Moulton contains a 600-meter-thick,horizontally exposed section of ice with intercalated tephra layers from nearby Mount Berlin.Argon-40/argon-39 dating of the thick, near-source tephra indicates that the age of thehorizontal ice section ranges between 15,000 and 492,000 years. Thus, the Mount Moulton siteoffers an unparalleled repository of ancient West Antarctic snow and trapped air that can beused to investigate climate over much of the past 500,000 years. The planar nature andconsistent dips of the tephra layers suggest that although the ice section has thinned, it isotherwise undeformed.


http://www.geosc.psu.edu/~sowers/index.html

We visited the Mount Moulton site during the 1999–2000 field season, at which time wecollected a horizontal core representing approximately 400 meters of ice, ranging from 15,000 tomore than 480,000 years old. In addition to this horizontal core, we took samples at variousdepths to test the quality of the climate record in the ice. We also collected 40 intercalatedtephra layers to provide a chronology for the ice section. The results of this first effort areextremely encouraging. There is clearly a usable record of past climate extending back beyond140,000 years.

There is work to do, however, to realize the full potential of this horizontal ice core. Theelemental and isotopic composition of trapped gases suggests some contamination by modernair. Since gas cross-dating of ice cores is the current standard by which climate records arecompared, we need to understand why and how the gas record is compromised before addingMount Moulton to our arsenal of ice-core paleoclimate records.

Our research has the following objectives:

+ To evaluate more thoroughly the integrity of the climatic record through shallow drilling of blueice, as well as the snow field upslope from this area;

+ To improve the radioisotopic dating of specific tephra layers;

+ To obtain baseline information about modern snowfall deposition, mean annual temperature,and wind pumping around the summit of Mount Moulton; and

+ To study how firn densification differs when surface accumulation changes from netaccumulation to net ablation.

Dr. Janet Sprintall University California San Diego Physical Oceanography ResearchDivision [email protected] http://www-hrx.ucsd.edu/ax22.html



O-260-L NSF/OPP 00-03618Station: R/V Laurence M. GouldRPSC POC: Randy SliesterResearch Site(s): Drake PassageDates in Antarctica: Instruments operate year-round

The Drake Passage high density XBT/XCTD program


Research Objectives: During each crossing of the research ship Laurence M. Gould, we intendto launch expendable bathythermographs (XBTs), supplemented by expendable conductivity-depth-temperature (XCDT) probes, to obtain high-density sections from which to study theseasonal variability and long-term change in the upper ocean structure of the Drake Passage,which is off the tip of South America. Whenever the distance between Antarctica andneighboring land is narrow, as in the Drake Passage and the area off the Cape of Good Hope,the Antarctic Circumpolar Current, which drives the waters in the Southern Ocean, is extremelystrong.

The information we gather will lead to the establishment of a high-quality database that can beused to study the magnitude and depth of penetration of the seasonal signals, the connectionsto atmospheric forcing, and the effects of interannual variations such as those associated withthe Antarctic Circumpolar Wave.

The sections obtained during these voyages will supplement the approximately 20 sections thatwe have been gathering and studying since September 1996. Our continuing data analysis willbe carried out in cooperation with the Argentine Antarctic Institute in Buenos Aires.


http://www-hrx.ucsd.edu/ax22.html

Dr. Gordon J. Stacey Cornell University Astronomy [email protected] http://www.astro.cornell.edu/SPIFI/new/spifi.html



A-377-S NSF/OPP 00-94605Station: South Pole StationRPSC POC: Charles KaminskiResearch Site(s): AST/RODates in Antarctica: Early November to mid February

Wide-field imaging spectroscopy in the submillimeter: DeployingSPIFI on AST/RO



Thomas Nikola . Thomas E. Oberst . Steven C. Parsley .Gordon J. Stacey

Research Objectives: SPIFI (South Pole imaging Fabry-Perot interferometer) is the first directdetection imaging spectrometer for use in the submillimeter band and was designed for use onthe 1.7-meter Antarctic Submillimeter Telescope and Remote Observatory (AST/RO) at theSouth Pole in the far-infrared and submillimeter windows. After having developed andextensively field-tested SPIFI, the primary scientific goals of this project are to:

+ Image the inner regions of the galaxy, in particular submillimeter lines that characterizeexcitation conditions in the Central Molecular Zone (CMZ), and trace the dynamics of the gas.Questions to be answered are, among others, Can neutral gas flowing through the CMZ betraced? Are there shocks from cloud-cloud collisions in this flow? What is the connectionbetween the CMZ molecular clouds and the circumnuclear ring?

+ Map the Large Magellanic Cloud and Small Magellanic Cloud in these lines. The low metalicity


http://www.astro.cornell.edu/SPIFI/new/spifi.html

environment in these dwarf galaxies may mimic that of protogalaxies, so that investigating theinteraction between star formation and the interstellar matter in these galaxies is key tounderstanding the star formation process in the early Universe.

+ Characterize and map the physical conditions of the interstellar matter in nearby galaxies.These data are unique and will be key to understanding the relationships between densitywaves, bar potentials, and galaxy-wide star formation.

These projects can be undertaken only with the high sensitivity and mapping capabilities of theSPIFI AST/RO combination. SPIFI is much more sensitive than the best heterodyne receivers,which do not have the sensitivity, or (often) the bandwidth, to detect the broad, weak lines fromgalaxies, or the spatial multiplexing capability necessary for wide-field mapping projects.

This group plans plan to gradually upgrade SPIFI by a factor of 10. They will also make modestoptical and cryogenic modifications to SPIFI to improve it in ways important to successful polaroperations. The result will be better spatial resolution, with a wider field of view, and a largeimprovement in system sensitivity. Moreover, the new cryogenic system will require servicingevery five days rather than the current 40 hours. This is helpful for outdoor polar operations. Thisnew system also reduces helium consumption (by a factor of 2) and therefore reduces cost

Dr. Antony A. Stark Smithsonian Institution Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory [email protected] http://cfa-www.harvard.edu/~adair/AST_RO




Antarctic Submillimeter Telescope and Remote Observatory(AST/RO)

Antarctic Submillimeter Telescope and RemoteObservatory (AST/RO)


Eyal Gerecht . Abigail S. Hedden . Patrick Puetz . Jacob Kooi .Craig Kulesa . Adair P. Lane . Andrea Loehr . John Nicholson .Fernando Rodriguez-Morales . Antony A. Stark . Julienne

Harnett . Nicolas Tothill . Christopher K. Walker . Gregory

Wright . Xin Zhao

Research Objectives: Astronomy is undergoing a revolutionary transformation, where for thefirst time researchers can observe the full range of electromagnetic radiation emitted byastronomical sources. One of the newly developed and least explored bands is thesubmillimeter, at frequencies from about 300 giga-Hertz up into the tera-Hertz range.Submillimeter-wave radiation is emitted by dense gas and dust between the stars, andsubmillimeter-wave observations allow scientists to study in unprecedented detail the galacticforces acting on that gas and the star formation processes within it.




The Antarctic Submillimeter Telescope and Remote Observatory (AST/RO) is a 1.7-meter,single-dish instrument that has been operating for nine years in several submillimeter bands. Ithas made position-position-velocity maps of submillimeter-wave spectral lines with arcminuteresolution over regions of sky that are several square degrees in size. AST/RO is a valuablecomplement to the planned arrays, which are inefficient when observing large areas because oftheir small field of view. AST/RO can observe molecular clouds throughout the fourth quadrantof the Milky Way and the Magellanic Clouds to locate star-forming cores and study in detail thedynamics of dense gas in our own galaxy. AST/RO studies are showing how molecular cloudsare structured, how the newly formed stars react back on the cloud, and how galactic forcesaffect cloud structure. They have also shown that the structure of molecular clouds is affected bytheir heavy element content and by their proximity to spiral arms, have studied the gradient ofheavy elements in the galaxy, and have recently produced extensive, high sensitivity maps ofseveral atomic and molecular transitions toward the Galactic Center.

Essential to AST/RO’s capabilities is its location at Amundsen–Scott South Pole Station. Mostsubmillimeter radiation is absorbed by irregular concentrations of atmospheric water vaporbefore it reaches the Earth’s surface. The dry air over South Pole Station allows an accurateintercomparison of submillimeter-wave power levels from locations on the sky separated byseveral degrees. This is essential to the study of submillimeter-wave radiation on the scale ofthe Milky Way and its companion galaxies.

Project researchers will devote equal effort to three initiatives: Making large-scale maps ofemissions in the Galactic Center and the Magellanic Clouds (these will be made freelyavailable), supporting proposals from the scientific community, and installing and using thedetector systems currently under development.

Dr. Charles R. Stearns University of Wisconsin Madison Space Science and EngineeringCenter/AMRC [email protected] http://amrc.ssec.wisc.edu



O-202-M/P/S NSF/OPP 01-26262Station: McMurdo Station, Palmer StationRPSC POC: Patricia JacksonResearch Site(s): McMurdo Station, Palmer Station, Atmospheric Research FacilityDates in Antarctica: Instruments operate year-round, mid November to mid December (projectteam deploys)

Antarctic Meteorological Research Center (AMRC) (2002-2005)

Antarctic Meteorological Research Center (2002-2005)

Deploying TeamMembers: Shelley L. Knuth

Research Objectives: The Antarctic Meteorological Research Center (AMRC) was created in1992 to improve access to meteorological data from the Antarctic. The AMRC’s mission is toconduct research in observational meteorology and the stewardship of meteorological data,along with providing data and expert assistance to the antarctic community to support researchand operations. The AMRC continues to fulfill its mission this season by:

+ Maintain and expanding the long-term record of all meteorological data on Antarctica and theSouthern Ocean, and make these data available to the scientific community for multidisciplinaryuse. Special attention is given to obtaining data not normally or readily available by othermeans.

+ Generating satellite products, including but not limited to antarctic composite imagery, andexpand and improve on them as much as possible



+ Conducting research in observational meteorology especially with regard to climatologicalanalyses and case studies

Conducting and expanding educational and public outreach activities associated with antarcticmeteorology and related fields.

Using available meteorological interactive processing software and other standard computingtools, the research team will collect data from all available sources for processing, archiving, anddistribution.

The mission of the AMRC not only includes the opportunity to advance the knowledge ofantarctic meteorology, but with the free availability of its data holdings, the AMRC gives othersthe opportunity to advance the frontiers of all antarctic science. Continuing educational outreachactivities on meteorology and the Antarctic, an important component of this work, have thepotential to raise the science literacy of the general public, as well as the level of K-12 scienceeducation.

Dr. Charles R. Stearns University of Wisconsin Madison Space Science and EngineeringCenter/AMRC [email protected] http://amrc.ssec.wisc.edu



O-283-M/P/S NSF/OPP 00-88058Station: McMurdo Station, Palmer StationRPSC POC: Patricia JacksonResearch Site(s): South Pole StationDates in Antarctica: Instruments operate year-round, mid November to late January (projectteam deploys)

Antarctic Automatic Weather Station Program (AWS): 2001-2004

Antarctic Automatic Weather Station Program: 2001-2004


John Cassano . Shelley L. Knuth . Jonathan E. Thom . GeorgeA. Weidner

Research Objectives: A network of nearly 50 automatic weather stations (AWS) has beenestablished on the antarctic continent and several surrounding islands. These facilities were builtto measure surface wind, pressure, temperature, and humidity. Some of them also track otheratmospheric variables, such as snow accumulation and incident solar radiation.

Their data are transmitted via satellite to a number of ground stations and put to several uses,including operational weather forecasting, accumulation of climatological records, generalresearch purposes, and specific support of the U.S. Antarctic Program - especially the LTERprogram at McMurdo and Palmer Stations. The AWS network has grown from a small-scaleprogram in 1980 into a significant data retrieval system that is now extremely reliable, and hasproven indispensable for both forecasting and research purposes. This project maintains andaugments the AWS, as necessary.



Dr. Konrad Steffen University of Colorado Boulder CIRES [email protected] http://cires.colorado.edu/



O-309-L NSF/OPP NASA awardStation: R/V Laurence M. GouldRPSC POC: Karl NewyearResearch Site(s): Bellingshausen Sea, R/V Nathaniel B. PalmerDates in Antarctica: Mid August to early September

AMSR sea ice validation during the R/V Laurence M. Gould's traverseto Antarctica

Ice thickness experiment using the EM31 electromagnetic probe on floatingfirst year ice in the Bellinghausen Sea with the R/V Laurence M. Gould inbackground. Graduate students Nicolas Cullen and Russell Huff wearspecial waterproof clothing and a Zodiac boat (not seen) is nearby. Photo byKonrad Steffen.

Deploying Team Members: Nicolas Cullen . Russel Huff . Masahige Nakayama . KonradSteffen

Research Objectives: We intend to make passive microwave measurements onboard the LaurenceM. Gould while enroute from Puente Arenas, Chile, to Antarctica in August and September 2003. Wewill use passive microwave radiometers to monitor the sea-ice surface at four frequencies [11.4gigahertz (GHz), 21 GHz, 35 GHz, and 94 GHz] at horizontal vertical polarizations. The brightnesstemperatures can then be related to aircraft overflight measurements and to AMSR-E [AdvancedMicrowave Scanning Radiometer EOS (Earth Observing System)] satellite measurements.

We will also

+ Make meteorological measurements of temperature, wind speed and direction, humidity, andpressure;

+ Make latent and sensible heat flux measurements with eddy-correlation instruments to derive theheat fluxes over various types of ice;


http://cires.colorado.edu/

+ Examine short- and long-wave radiation components of incoming and outgoing fluxes;

+ Gather cloud statistics with an all-sky camera with hemispheric coverage;

+ Make optical path-length measurements;

+ Make sea and ice-surface temperature profile measurements along the ship’s transect;

+ Make in situ ice thickness and salinity profile measurements of various ice types characteristic ofregions along the ship’s transect;

+ Analyze snow layers over sea ice with ground-penetrating radar;

+ Make spectral reflectance measurements of different snow and ice types for the 300- to 2,500-nanometer (nm) range with 1- to 3-nm spectral resolution.

We also plan to launch about 50 radiosonde balloons to measure the temperature, wind speed anddirection, and humidity profile from the surface of the water to about 10 kilometers above it.

Mr. William Stepp National Scientific Balloon Facility (NSBF) [email protected] http://www.nsbf.nasa.gov/index.html



A-145-M NSF/OPP NSF/NASA agreementStation: McMurdo StationRPSC POC: Curt LaBombardResearch Site(s): Williams FieldDates in Antarctica: Late October to early February

Long Duration Balloon Program (LDB)

Long Duration Balloon Program


Paul Brasfield . Reid Chambers . Mark Cobble . Darla E. Cook

. Victor Davison . Andrew Denney IV . Derek Dolbey . Chris

Field . Hugo Franco . Scott C. Hadley . Randall Henderson .John Hobbie . Erich Klein . Otto (Joe) Masters . Robert

Redinger . Donald Roberts . William Stepp . David W. Sullivan

. John Wefel . Nathan F. Wise

Research Objectives: Free-flying balloons offer many advantages over satellites as a means ofhigh-altitude exploration: They remain at a specific location much longer and cost a fraction tolaunch. NASA's National Scientific Balloon Faciltity (NSBF), based in Palestine Texas, operatesthe Long Duration Balloon (LDB) program near Williams Field at McMurdo Station. NSBF staffwork with researchers, launching, tracking, and recovering high-altitude balloons carryingscientific payloads into the stratosphere.

The NSBF will launch two stratospheric balloons, each with a volume of 28.42 million cubic feet


http://www.nsbf.nasa.gov/index.html

and capable of ascending at a rate of approximately 900 feet per minute to a float altitude of125,000 feet.

Both launches will take place at the LDB site near Williams Field, reach float altitude,circumnavigate the continent between 77 degrees south latitude and 80 degrees southlongitude. They will be terminated and recovered on the Ross Ice Shelf or on the Polar Plateau.The launch window is mid-December to mid-January.

To terminate the flight an aircraft flies within line-of-sight of the balloon and sends a command tothe payload from an onboard communication system. At the point of release, the payload willdescend with a parachute to a predicted impact zone. Recovery operations then follow.

Dr. Joann M. Stock California Institute of Technology Geological and Planetary Sciences [email protected] http://www.gps.caltech.edu/~jstock/Palmerres.html



G-071-N NSF/OPP 01-26334Station: RV/IB Nathaniel B. PalmerRPSC POC: Ashley LoweResearch Site(s): R/V Nathaniel B. PalmerDates in Antarctica: Late August to mid October

Improved Cenozoic plate reconstructions of the circum-AntarcticRegion



Marguerite Gerstell . Benjamin Gross . Teresa S. Baker .Robert Clayton . Emily W. Crawford . Timothy M. Doyle . David

Baker . Michael Gurnis . Kylara M. Martin . Julie Parra . Xyoli

Perez-Campos . Brian Savage . Joann M. Stock . Cristina

Thomas . Dana J. Vukajlovich . Chloe Winant

Research Objectives: Well-constrained Cenozoic plate reconstructions of the circum-antarcticregion are critical for examining a number of problems of global geophysical importance. Thisgroup seeks to improve reconstructions involving the Antarctic and Pacific plates by surveyinggravity, magnetics, and swath bathymetry on Palmer transit cruises of geological importance.

On transit cruise NBP 0207 they will take advantage of the planned track on the Pacific plate tosurvey across several major fracture zones, across part of the Manihiki Plateau and theOsbourne trough (to test aspects of the Mesozoic plate motion history of this region, when it may


http://www.gps.caltech.edu/~jstock/Palmerres.html

have been much farther south, adjacent to Antarctica), and along the Hikurangi trench (to studythe rheology of the downgoing plate).

Also during the cruise the principal investigators will conduct a formal class in marinegeophysics for 16 graduate and undergraduate students from a variety of institutions. In this wayteaching activities can be integrated with the real field work of a research project.

Dr. John O. Stone University of Washington Quaternary Research Center [email protected]



I-175-M/S NSF/OPP 02-29314Station: McMurdo Station, South PoleStationRPSC POC: Melissa RiderResearch Site(s): Reedy Glacier, McMurdo StationDates in Antarctica: Late November to mid January

Late Quaternary history of Reedy Glacier



Angela Bond . Howard B. Conway . Maurice Conway . Brenda

L. Hall . John O. Stone . Claire Todd

Research Objectives: The stability of the marine West Antarctic Ice Sheet remains animportant, unresolved issue for predicting future changes in sea level. Studies indicate that themass balance of the ice sheet today could be negative or positive. The apparent differencecould stem in part from short-term fluctuations in flow. By comparison, geologic observationsprovide evidence of behavior over much longer time scales. Recent work suggests thatdeglaciation of both the Ross embayment and coastal Marie Byrd Land continued into the lateHolocene (about the last 2,000 years ago) and leaves open the possibility of ongoingdeglaciation and grounding-line retreat. However, previous work in the Ross embayment wasbased on data from just three locations that are all far north of the present grounding line.Additional data from farther south are needed to determine whether the recession has ended orwhether the rate and pattern of deglaciation inferred from our previous study still apply.

We will therefore reconstruct the evolution of Reedy Glacier, in the southern Transantarctic


Mountains, since the last glacial maximum. Because the glacier emerges from the mountainsabove the grounding line, its surface slope and elevation should record changes in the thicknessof grounded ice in the Ross Sea up to the present. The deglaciation chronology of ReedyGlacier can thus indicate whether the Holocene retreat of the West Antarctic Ice Sheet endedthousands of years ago or is still continuing.

Over two field seasons, we will map, date, and correlate moraines at sites along the length ofthe glacier. We will make radar and global positioning system measurements to supplementexisting ice thickness and velocity data. We will also construct a model of glacier dynamics anduse it to relate geologic measurements to the grounding-line position downstream. Ultimately,we will integrate the mapping, dating, and ice-modeling components of the study into areconstruction that defines changes in ice thickness in the southern Ross Sea since the lastglacial maximum and relates these changes to the history of grounding-line retreat.

Our work directly addresses the key goals of the West Antarctic Ice Sheet Initiative, which are tounderstand the dynamics, recent history, and possible future behavior of the West Antarctic IceSheet.

Dr. Taro Takahashi Columbia University LDEO [email protected]



O-214-L NSF/OPP 00-03609Station: R/V Laurence M. GouldRPSC POC: Bob KluckhohnResearch Site(s): Drake PassageDates in Antarctica: Instruments operate year-round

Mesoscale, seasonal and inter-annual variability of surface waterCO2 in the Drake Passage


Research Objectives: The Southern Ocean provides an important component of the globalcarbon budget. Cold surface temperatures, with consequent low vertical stability, ice formation,and high winds, produce a very active environment where the atmospheric and oceanicreservoirs readily exchange gaseous carbon. The Drake Passage is the narrowest point throughwhich the Antarctic Circumpolar Current and its associated fronts must pass; this so-calledchokepoint provides the most efficient site to measure the latitudinal gradients of gas exchange.

Working from the R/V Laurence M. Gould, we will use equipment designed to measure bothdissolved carbon dioxide and occasional total carbon dioxide in the surface waters duringtransects of the Drake Passage. This work extends similar measurements made aboard R/VNathaniel B. Palmer and complements other data collected on surface temperatures andcurrents. These several data sets, supplemented by satellite imagery, will enable scientists toestimate the net production and carbon export by the biological community, as well as the basictargets-a quantitative description of the sources of dissolved carbon dioxide variability and acalculation of carbon dioxide fluxes between the ocean and the atmosphere.


Dr. Lisa Tauxe Scripps Institution of Oceanography [email protected]



G-182-M NSF/OPP 02-29403Station: McMurdo StationRPSC POC: Patricia JacksonResearch Site(s): Royal Society Range, Cape Crozier, Cape Bird, McMurdo StationDates in Antarctica: Early January to mid February

Geomagnetic field as recorded in the Mount Erebus VolcanicProvince: Key to field structure at high southern latitudes



Cathy Constable . Jasper G. Konter . Hubert Staudigel . LisaTauxe

Research Objectives: We aim to use lava flows from the Mount Erebus Volcanic Province tostudy the magnetic field of the Earth over the past 5 million years in order to test models of itsgeomagnetic dynamo. Paleomagnetic data (directions of ancient geomagnetic fields obtainedfrom rocks) play an important role in a variety of geophysical studies of the Earth, including platetectonic reconstructions, magnetostratigraphy, and studies of the behavior of the ancientgeomagnetic field (called paleogeomagnetism).

Over the past four decades, the key assumption in many studies has been that the averagedirection of the paleomagnetic field corresponds to one that would have been produced by ageocentric axial dipole (analogous to a bar magnet at the center of the Earth) and thatpaleoinclinations (the dip of magnetic directions from rocks) provide data of sufficient accuracyto enable them to be used in plate reconstructions. A recent reexamination of the fundamentaldata underlying models of the time-averaged field has shown that the most glaring deficiency in


the existing database is a dearth of high-quality information, including paleointensity data, fromhigh latitudes.

We will therefore undertake a sampling and laboratory program on suitable sites from the MountErebus Volcanic Province in order to produce the quality data from high southern latitudes thatare essential to an enhanced understanding of the time-averaged field and its long-termvariations.

Dr. Edith L. Taylor University of Kansas Lawrence Department of Ecology and EvolutionaryBiology [email protected]



G-095-M NSF/OPP 01-26230Station: McMurdo StationRPSC POC: Melissa RiderResearch Site(s): Skaar Ridge, Fremouw Peak, Beardmore Glacier, McMurdo StationDates in Antarctica: Early to late December

Permian and Triassic floras from the Beardmore Glacier region:Icehouse to greenhouse?

Glossopteris leaves from Skaar Ridge (Late Permian)of the Beardmore Glacier area.


Pablo Puerta . David Buchanan . N. Ruben Cuneo . Charles P.

Daghlian . Edith L. Taylor . Thomas N. Taylor

Research Objectives: Over the past 30 years, the rocks of the central TransantarcticMountains have been a source of outstanding plant fossil discoveries, including Permian andTriassic permineralized peat, fossil forests silicified in growth position, and compression floraswith cuticular preservation. The rare juxtaposition of sites that include many different types ofplant preservation, its exceptional quality, and the richness of the sites make this area unique.

We will collect Permian and Triassic plant megafossils from the Beardmore Glacier area(compression floras, especially those from Graphite Peak, and permineralized peats from SkaarRidge and Fremouw Peak, both near Walcott Névé). Since permineralizations preserve a three-dimensional record of plant organs, they are important in understanding the basic morphologyand anatomy of fossil plants, as well as detailing relationships among groups. The data providedby the juxtaposition of plant fossils preserved as permineralizations and compressions havealready contributed greatly to our understanding of late Paleozoic–early Mesozoic plant


evolution.

The Permian and Triassic represent an important time in plant evolution, and one about whichwe still know relatively little. The glossopterid seed ferns in the Permian and the corystospermsin the Triassic were the dominant plant groups in Gondwana. Since both groups had enclosedseeds, they have been proposed at one time or another as possible ancestors of floweringplants and have figured prominently in phylogenetic analyses of seed plants. Only through acombination of permineralizations and compressions is it possible to reveal a complete picture offossil plants and, more importantly, to understand their position in seed plant evolution.

We will collect plants and silicified logs from Graphite Peak, which is believed to contain thePermian/Triassic boundary. Silicified logs have been noted in the lower Buckley Formation atthis site, and these will be collected and examined for tree rings, which can be compared withtree rings in Late Permian wood (upper Buckley) from nearby Mount Achernar. The LatePermian has been assumed to be much warmer than Early-Middle Permian, and this should bereflected in the rings’ width and structure.

Our findings should lead to significant improvements in knowledge of plant evolution andpaleoenvironmental conditions during the critical Permian to Triassic interval.

Dr. Edith L. Taylor University of Kansas Lawrence Department of Ecology and EvolutionaryBiology [email protected]



G-293-M NSF/OPP 02-29877Station: McMurdo StationRPSC POC: Melissa RiderResearch Site(s): Beardmore Glacier, Collinson Ridge, Schroeder Hill, McMurdo StationDates in Antarctica: Mid to late November

Shackleton Glacier area: Evolution of vegetation during the Triassic

Stem with attached Dicroidium leaves (Late Triassic) from the ShackletonGlacier area.

Deploying Team Members: Pablo Puerta . David Buchanan . N. Ruben Cuneo . Charles P.

Daghlian . Edith L. Taylor . Thomas N. Taylor

Research Objectives: The rocks of the central Transantarctic Mountains have been a source of fossildiscoveries over the past 30 years. The rare juxtaposition of sites that include many different types ofplant preservation, the exceptional quality of the fossils, and the biodiversity of the sites make this areaunique. The Paleozoic to Mesozoic transition is a critical time in plant evolution. A unique variety ofseed plant groups existed, and several have been suggested as the ancestors of flowering plants.There was also a massive floral change from the Permian to the Triassic.

While most fossil plants occur as disarticulated leaves, stems, and reproductive organs, many in theShackleton Glacier area are partially articulated, thus making it possible to gain a more accuratepicture of the entire plant and its place in the ecosystem. We will examine Triassic floras from two sitesin the Shackleton Glacier area (Collinson Ridge and an unnamed ridge southeast of Schroeder Hill). Inaddition to compression fossils, the latter also includes some permineralized peat and fossil stumps.The Collinson Ridge site is important because it contains fossil peat and logs in presumably LowerTriassic rocks. Preliminary analysis of petrified material collected during the 1995–1996 field season,however, suggests that perhaps it is Late Permian rather than Early Triassic, as would be expected. Itis therefore important to elucidate the biostratigraphy of this area because the position of the Permian-Triassic boundary is crucial in understanding the timing of terrestrial extinctions around it. Further


collecting at both of these sites and analysis of the fossil material in the laboratory will address thesediscrepancies and yield important new information about Triassic plant evolution.

Paleobotany is ideally suited to education and outreach. Workshops and temporary exhibits onantarctic science have been developed through programs sponsored by the University of KansasNatural History Museum and Biodiversity Research Center, and we will continue this activity. Studentinvolvement has also been extensive and will be continued.

Dr. Mark H. Thiemens University of California San Diego Department of Chemistry [email protected]



I-165-M/S NSF/OPP 01-25761Station: McMurdo Station, South PoleStationRPSC POC: Karen PavichResearch Site(s): Dome C, Quiet SectorDates in Antarctica: Late December to early February (Dome C), mid to late December (SouthPole)

South Pole Atmospheric Nitrate Isotopic Analysis (SPANIA)

Snow pit dug by glaciologist Dan Stone (image from an articlepublished by the University of Alaska at Fairbanks, available athttp://www.uaf.edu/seagrant/NewsMedia/01ASJ/12.07.01mountain-change.html). Photo by Jon Krakauer.

Deploying TeamMembers: Justin McCabe . Joel Savarino . Mark H. Thiemens

Research Objectives: Despite decades of research, several important issues in antarcticatmospheric science are presently inadequately resolved, including quantifying the sources ofnitrate aerosols over time. Today, little is known about past denitrification of the stratosphere inhigh-latitude regions. This lack of knowledge significantly limits our ability to understand thechemical state of ancient atmospheres and therefore evaluate present and past-coupledclimate/atmosphere models. The role of nitrogen in environmental degradation is well known,and atmospheric aerosols have now been shown to have a mass-independent oxygen isotopiccontent.

We will therefore perform a detailed laboratory analysis of the mass-independent isotopiccomposition of processes associated with atmospheric nitrate trapped in the snow pack at theSouth Pole. Specifically, we will test whether the oxygen isotopes 16O, 17O, and 18O of nitrate


can be used to probe the denitrification of the antarctic stratosphere.

We will also investigate the stable oxygen isotope ratios of nitrate collected both in real time andfrom the snow in Antarctica. Full-year nitrate aerosol collections, with resolution time horizons ofa week, will be performed at the South Pole. Weekly aerosol collections will help us identify anyseasonal trend in the oxygen-17 excess anomaly and eventually link it to the denitrification ofthe antarctic stratosphere.

In addition, we will use this data set to test our assumption that the oxygen isotopic anomaly ofnitrate is mainly formed in the stratosphere and is well preserved in the snow pack. If this is true,we will for the first time resolve an atmospheric signal extracted from a nitrate profile. The snowpit will allow us to see any trend in the data over a time span of many decades.

Dr. Wayne Z. Trivelpiece National Oceanic and AtmosphericAdministration, Southwest Fisheries [email protected]



B-040-E NSF/OPP 01-25985Station: Special ProjectRPSC POC: John EvansResearch Site(s): Copacabana Field Camp on St. George IslandDates in Antarctica: Early January to mid February

Foraging behavior and demography of Pygoscelis penguins

Foraging behavior and demography of Pygoscelispenguins


Stacey Buckelew . Simonetta Corsolini . David B. McWethy .Michael Polito . Susan G. Trivelpiece . Wayne Z. Trivelpiece

Research Objectives: Seabird research conducted at Admiralty Bay, King George Island, inthe Antarctic Peninsula region has documented annual variability in the life history parameters ofthe population biology of three related penguin species: the Adélie, the gentoo, and the chinstrap(Pygoscelis adeliae, P. papua, and P. antarctica, respectively). This long-term study hascollected 25 years of data on these three related species, including survival and recruitment,population size and breeding success, and diets and foraging ecology.

We will extend the research linking penguin demography and foraging ecology to variability inthe antarctic marine ecosystem. A major focus will be on the population biology data for theAdélie and gentoo penguins and the distribution and trophic interactions among the threespecies during the breeding season and the nonbreeding, winter period. Recent studies usingsatellite tags and time-depth recorders to examine postfledging foraging have provided the firstdetailed data on the wintering distributions of Adélie and chinstrap penguins in the AntarcticPeninsula.


Specific topics include an examination of the size and sex of krill captured by penguins feedingchicks and krill collected concurrently by net hauls in the adjacent marine environment and thelength-frequency distribution of krill collected from penguin diet samples. The winter survival ofbreeding adults and the recruitment of young (2- to 4-year-old) prebreeding penguins to theirnatal colony will be compared to the extent of sea ice in the winter before the breeding season.These variables are expected to be positively correlated for the Adélie but negatively correlatedfor the chinstrap penguin. Detailed studies of adult gentoo penguins, which do not dispersewidely from their natal colony, will be conducted using satellite tags.

The data we gather on the impact of environmental variation on the structure of upper-trophic-level predators such as the Pygoscelis penguins will improve our understanding of the structureand function of the Antarctic.

Dr. Maria Uhle University of Tennessee Department of Geological Sciences [email protected]



B-011-M NSF/OPP 02-30237Station: McMurdo StationRPSC POC: Melissa RiderResearch Site(s): Taylor Valley, McMurdo StationDates in Antarctica: Mid November to late December

Biogeochemistry of Victoria Land coastal ponds: Role in terrestrialecosystem organic carbon dynamics and structure


Deploying TeamMembers: Roman Borochin . Melissa Hage . Meg Howard . Maria L. Uhle

Research Objectives: Structure, processes, and functional linkages in the antarctic terrestrialecosystem have been the focus of the Long-Term Ecological Research site in the McMurdo DryValleys since 1993. This ecosystem has a modern component linking organic carbon dynamicsbetween the soils, glaciers, streams, and ice-covered lakes, plus a legacy to ancient glacialevents that deposited paleo-organic carbon. The soil reservoir contains 72 percent of theseasonally unfrozen and biologically available organic carbon within Taylor Valley, and asubstantial fraction may be recalcitrant carbon derived from ancient climatic events.

One potentially large source of labile, and hence bioavailable, organic carbon that has not beeninvestigated is the many small ponds found in most areas of the McMurdo Dry Valleys,especially near the coast. These ponds have a relatively large surface area, and they seem togenerate a significant amount of stranded microbial mat as they shift position. The transientnature of these ponds renders the organic matter vulnerable to transport and possibly


represents a significant source of modern, labile carbon in the ecosystem. A preliminaryestimate suggests that the coastal pond reservoir may constitute at least 11 percent of thecarbon in the Dry Valleys soil reservoir. Therefore, these ponds may significantly affect thecarbon cycle and must be considered in developing a carbon budget for this polar desert.

We will determine the extent of the coastal pond reservoir, assess how productive it is, anddetermine whether it is a source or sink within organic carbon dynamics and the overall structureof the terrestrial ecosystem. We will focus on understanding the biogeochemistry of these pondsin terms of the factors affecting organic carbon production and nutrient cycling.

We should derive a more detailed understanding of the linkages between modern ecosystemcomponents, develop insights into the biogeochemical cycling within polar desert ecosystems,and, possibly, identify mechanisms that help sustain life in extreme environments. We will alsoinvolve predominantly African-American K–5 students from Knoxville city schools. Thesestudents will be involved in question-and-answer sessions over the Internet, and older studentswill design experiments and be introduced to the scientific method. Science and math classeswill use data analysis to develop analytical skills and place them in a relevant context.

Dr. Richard R. Veit City University of New York/College ofStaten Isl. Department of Biology [email protected]



B-023-L NSF/OPP 99-83751Station: R/V Laurence M. GouldRPSC POC: Karl NewyearResearch Site(s): R/V Laurence M. GouldDates in Antarctica: Late November to late December

Dynamics of predator-prey behavior in the Antarctic Ocean



Jaqueline LeBlanc . Marie-Caroline Martin . Evelyn Neunteufel

. Malin L. Pinsky . Jarrod Santora . Richard R. Veit

Research Objectives: We plan to bring two groups of undergraduate students to the Antarctic,where they will learn a broad range of skills in physical and biological oceanography byparticipating in collecting data on seabird abundance and behavior. We will combine research onthe dynamics of seabirds that feed on antarctic krill with the teaching of mathematical modelingof foraging behavior and spatial statistics. Our goal is to learn how foraging antarctic seabirdsrespond to changes in the abundance and distribution of their prey, primarily antarctic krill.

Our approach will be to study bird behavior near krill swarms and to contrast this behavior withthat observed in areas lacking krill. From these comparisons, we will build foraging models thatwill make predictions about the dispersion of birds under differing levels of krill abundance. Ourlong-term goal is to be able to make predictions about the impact of future changes in krillstocks on seabirds. We will conduct our work in the vicinity of Elephant Island over two seasons.Each season, we will survey the insular shelf north of Elephant Island and record theabundance, distribution, and behavior of seabirds.


We will attempt to quantify the linkage between prey abundance and bird behavior in order touse this behavioral information to index long-term changes in the prey base. Our teaching goalis twofold: first, we will introduce inner-city college students to a spectacular and economicallyimportant ecosystem. Through their work on an oceanographic research vessel, students will beexposed to a broad range of research topics and methods, from behavioral ecology to physicaloceanography. Second, once back at home, students will participate in the development of amathematical biology initiative at the College of Staten Island. Here, they will be encouraged toapply basic mathematical reasoning and computer modeling to a real problem—determining howforaging choices made by seabirds can ultimately impact their reproductive success.

Dr. Maria Vernet Scripps Institution of Oceanography Marine Research Division [email protected] http://pal.lternet.edu





environment



Peter Horne . Wendy A. Kozlowski . Karen Pelletreau . Karie

A. Sines . Maria Vernet . Bryan White

Research Objectives: The phytoplankton ecology component of the Long Term EcologicalResearch (LTER) project focuses on rates of primary production and phytoplankton communitystructure, particularly their relationship to physical forcing.



Dr. Ross A. Virginia Dartmouth College Environmental Studies Program [email protected] http://huey.Colorado.EDU/LTER/



B-423-M NSF/OPP 98-10219Station: McMurdo StationRPSC POC: Jessie CrainResearch Site(s): McMurdo Station, Taylor Valley, Dry ValleysDates in Antarctica: Instruments operate year-round, early December to early February(project team deploys)


a polar desert



Kathleen Catapano . Michael Poage . Rebekka M. Stucker .Ross A. Virginia

Research Objectives: This project is one of two soil productivity components of McMurdoLTER. This season the group will focus on:

+ The influence of climate and edaphic factors on carbon and nitrogen cycling in terrestrialecosystems of the Antarctic Dry Valleys.

+ The influence of climate and soil chemistry on the distribution and abundance of soilbiodiversity in the Antarctic Dry Valleys.

+ Understanding the linkages between soil biological communities and underlying ecosystemfunctioning.



+ Evaluating the influence of changes in climate on terrestrial ecosystems and invertebratecommunities.

Dr. Von Walden University of Idaho [email protected]



O-213-M NSF/OPP NASA awardStation: McMurdo StationRPSC POC: Karen PavichResearch Site(s): Dome CDates in Antarctica: Late November to mid February

Validation of the Atmospheric Infrared Sounder (AIRS) over theAntarctic Plateau

Validation of the Atmospheric Infrared Sounder (AIRS)over the Antarctic Plateau


Bradley Halter . David Longenecker . William L. Roth . VonWalden

Research Objectives: The Antarctic Plateau is ideal for calibrating and validating infraredsatellite instruments. The large continental ice sheet is one of the most homogeneous surfaceson Earth in terms of surface temperature and emissivity. Ground-based measurements ofupwelling infrared radiation from the surface between 8 and 12 micrometers are very nearlyequal to those measured by satellite instruments because of minimal atmospheric emission andabsorption. Therefore, accurate measurements of spectral infrared radiance can providevaluable validation data for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration’s AtmosphericInfrared Sounder (AIRS).

We will measure upwelling and downwelling spectral infrared radiance with the PolarAtmospheric Emitted Radiance Inferometer. Its viewing angle will be adjustable in both nadir andazimuth to match the AIRS viewing angle of the surface and atmosphere. Also, we will use theAIRS Mobile Observing System to map changes in surface radiation at spatial scales similar to


the AIRS field of view. Then, in conjunction with the University of Nice and the University of NewSouth Wales, we will use a Vaisala atmospheric sounding system to obtain temperature andhumidity profiles. Finally, using a ground-based global positioning system unit, we will attempt tomeasure the extremely low values of total precipitable water (about 1 millimeter in the summer).

The data we gather will be extremely helpful in validating the measurements obtained fromAIRS.

Dr. Diana H. Wall Colorado State University Natural Resource Ecology Laboratory [email protected] http://www.nrel.colostate.edu/projects/soil/



B-424-M NSF/OPP 98-10219Station: McMurdo StationRPSC POC: Jessie CrainResearch Site(s): Taylor Valley, Dry Valleys, McMurdo StationDates in Antarctica: Mid December to mid February


a polar desert

McMurdo Dry Valleys Long Term Ecological Research(LTER): The role of natural legacy on ecosystemstructure and function in a polar desert


Byron J. Adams . Emma J. Broos . David Hopkins . Johnson

Nkem . Diana H. Wall

Research Objectives: This project is one of two soil productivity components of McMurdoLTER. The group will continue to maintain (through application of water and nutrients), monitor(soil moisture and temperature) and sample (soils) in our various long-term experimental plotsnear Lakes Fryxell, Hoare and Bonney. The overall goal is to determine the impacts of naturalfactors and those associated with potential climate change on the abundance, distribution, anddiversity of soil biota.


http://www.nrel.colostate.edu/projects/soil/

Dr. Stephen G. Warren University of Washington Atmospheric Sciences Dept. [email protected]



O-201-M NSF/OPP 00-03826Station: McMurdo StationRPSC POC: Karen PavichResearch Site(s): Dome CDates in Antarctica: Late November to mid February

Solar radiation processes on the East Antarctic Plateau

The 33 meter tower, a platform for instruments thatmeasure snow surface reflectance. Photo by Richard Brandt.


Richard E. Brandt . Thomas C. Grenfell . Stephen Hudson .Delphine M. Six . Stephen G. Warren

Research Objectives: This project is an experimental study of solar radiation processes nearthe surface at Dome C, the French-Italian station in East Antarctica. It will be carried out incooperation with the Laboratoire de Glaciologie et Geophysique de l'Environment in Grenoble,France. The emphasis is on the reflection of sunlight by snow and the transmission of sunlight


through clouds. The observations researchers gather will be relevant to climate, remote sensing,and the physics of ice and snow.

Observations of the angular pattern of solar radiation reflected from the snow surface will allowthe researchers to validate information derived from satellite-derived radiances. Using radiativetransfer modeling through the atmosphere, the project's research team will reconcile measuredsurface reflection functions with the empirical functions obtained from the Advanced Very HighResolution Radiometer on the polar orbiting satellites of the National Oceanic and AtmosphericAdministration.

The research team will measure transmission of solar radiation through clouds, and thesemeasurements will be used to obtain effective cloud optical depths to estimate cloud radiativeforcing, with applications in climate models. They will develop a method to obtain thisinformation from pyranometers alone so that the historical record of solar radiation observationsin the antarctic interior can be analyzed for climatological information on clouds.

Finally, the spectral peak of snow albedo will be accurately located in order to resolve adiscrepancy over the spectral absorption of pure ice in the visible to near-ultraviolet range.

Dr. Douglas Wiens Washington University Department of Earth and PlanetarySciences [email protected] http://levee.wustl.edu/seismology/TAMSEIS



G-089-M NSF/OPP 99-09603Station: McMurdo StationRPSC POC: Jessie CrainResearch Site(s): Transantarctic MountainsDates in Antarctica: Mid November to mid January

A broadband seismic experiment to investigate deep continentalstructure across the east-west Antarctic boundary

A broadband seismic experiment to investigate deepcontinental structure across the East-West Antarcticboundary


Audrey D. Huerta . Glenn R. Osburn . Moira L. Pyle . Patrick J.

Shore . Donald E. Voigt . Timothy Watson

Research Objectives: Antarctica's outline shape looks generally like Australia, though halfagain as large. However beneath its enormous ice sheet lies evidence of its origin. EastAntarctica has a bedrock continent-like foundation, while the ice sheet over West Antarctica -- athird the area -- in fact covers a series of "islands." West Antarctica shares a geologic historywith the South American Andes Mountains, the result of plates colliding and subducting. EastAntarctica is more like a large coherent chunk that broke free of the supercontinent,Gondwanaland, and drifted to a new position at the bottom of the world. The boundary betweenthese two regions (with their disparate geologic pedigrees) is called the east-west antarcticboundary. The crust and upper mantle here reveals many important and interesting distinctionswhich tells the basic story of the tectonic development of Antarctica.

In November 2000 this group began making seismic measurements using three arrays and atotal of 44 seismic stations, all geared to evaluating geodynamic models of the evolution of


http://levee.wustl.edu/seismology/TAMSEIS

Antarctica that rely on data about the crust and upper mantle. To analyze the data, researchersuse a variety of proven modeling techniques, including body- and surface-wave tomography,receiver function inversion, and shear-wave splitting analysis.

One basic question is, "How were the Transantarctic Mountains formed?" Though widelyconsidered a classic example of rift-flank uplift, there is little consensus about the upliftmechanism. Many theories have been proposed ranging from delayed phase changes totransform-flank uplift. All make various assumptions about upper mantle structure beneath andadjacent to the rift-side of the mountain front.

Another focus will be the structure of the east antarctic craton, the highest ice block in the world.Was this anomalous elevation a prime driver in the onset of glaciation there? More to the point,how did it arise? Proposed models include isostatic uplift from thickened crust, anomalouslydepleted upper mantle, and thermally modified upper mantle, as well as dynamic uplift. How farthe old continental lithosphere extends is also uncertain. In particular, it is unknown whether theold lithosphere extends to the western edge of East Antarctica beneath the crustal rocksdeformed during the Ross Orogeny (formation).

When completed and analyzed, this comprehensive set of data and theory testing will enablenew maps of the variation in crustal thickness, upper mantle structure, anisotropy, and mantlediscontinuity topography across the boundary of East and West Antarctica, providing a muchenhanced foundation for understanding the geodynamics of the antarctic.

Dr. Terry J. Wilson Ohio State University Geological Sciences and Byrd Polar [email protected] http://www.geology.ohio-state.edu/TAMDEF



G-079-M NSF/OPP 02-30285Station: McMurdo StationRPSC POC: Curt LaBombardResearch Site(s): Transantarctic MountainsDates in Antarctica: Late October to early February

Transantarctic Mountains deformation network: GPSmeasurements of neotectonic motion in the antarctic interior



Graeme Blick . Robert Glover . Donald B. Grant . Dorota

Grejner-Brzezinska . Larry D. Hothem . Sarah Morris . Michael

J. Willis . Terry J. Wilson . Jan Wuite . Yi Yudan

Research Objectives: We will conduct global positioning system (GPS) measurements ofbedrock crustal motions in an extension of the Transantarctic Mountains Deformation Network(TAMDEF) in order to document neotectonic displacements caused by tectonic deformationwithin the West Antarctic Rift or mass changes in the antarctic ice sheets. By monitoring theU.S. and Italian networks of bedrock GPS stations along the Transantarctic Mountains and onoffshore islands in the Ross Sea, we will tightly constrain horizontal displacements related toactive neotectonic rifting, strike-slip translations, and volcanism. We will use GPS-derivedcrustal motions, together with information from other programs on the ice sheets and fromongoing structural and seismic investigations in Victoria Land, to model glacio-isostaticadjustments due to deglaciation and to modern mass changes in the ice sheets. The integrativeand iterative nature of this modeling will yield a holistic interpretation of neotectonics and ice




sheet history that will help us discriminate tectonic crustal displacements fromviscoelastic/elastic glacio-isostatic motions.

We will do repeat surveys of key sites southward about 250 kilometers along the TransantarcticMountains. These measurements will cross gradients in predicted vertical motion due toviscoelastic rebound. The southward extension will also allow us to determine the southern limitof the active Terror Rift and will provide a better baseline for constraints on any ongoing tectonicdisplacements across the West Antarctic Rift system as a whole. Further, we will investigateunique aspects of GPS geodesy in Antarctica to determine how the error spectrum compareswith that found in mid-latitude regions and to identify optimum measurement and dataprocessing methods. The geodetic research will improve position accuracies within our networkand will also yield general recommendations for other deformation-monitoring networks in polarregions.

An education and outreach program targeted at Ohio State University undergraduates who arenot science majors will illuminate the research process for nonscientists. This effort will educatestudents about science and inform them about Antarctica and how it relates to global scienceissues.

Dr. Terry J. Wilson Ohio State University Geological Sciences and Byrd Polar [email protected]



G-099-N NSF/OPP 01-25624Station: RV/IB Nathaniel B. PalmerRPSC POC: Ashley LoweResearch Site(s): Ross SeaDates in Antarctica: Late January to mid February

Neotectonic structure of Terror Rift, Western Ross Sea



Marcy Davis . Nedra Bonal . Stuart Henrys . Lawrence A.

Lawver . Mark Wiederspahn . Terry J. Wilson

Research Objectives: Displacements between East and West Antarctica have long beenproposed based on global plate circuits, apparent hot-spot motions, geologic grounds, seafloormagnetic anomalies, or paleomagnetism. Such motions require plate boundaries that crossAntarctica, yet these boundaries have never been explicitly defined.

We will attempt to delineate the late Cenozoic boundary between East and West Antarcticaalong the Terror Rift in the western Ross Sea by using marine and airborne geophysical data tomap the fault patterns and volcanic structure along the eastern margin. We will also map theorientations of volcanic fissures and seamount alignments on the seafloor. The volcanicalignments will show the regional extension or shear directions across the rift and theorientations of associated crustal stresses.

Delineation of neotectonic fault patterns will demonstrate whether the eastern margin of the riftforms a continuous boundary and whether the rift itself can be linked with postulated strike-slip


faults in the northwestern Ross Sea. We will combine seafloor findings with fault kinematic andstress field determinations from the surrounding volcanic islands and the TransantarcticMountains.

Over 3 years, we will complete a collaborative structural analysis of existing multichannel andsingle-channel seismic profiles and aeromagnetic data over the Terror Rift, locating volcanicvents or fissures and any fault scarps on the seafloor and making a preliminary determination ofthe age and kinematics of deformation in the Terror Rift. We will then carry out multibeam sonarmapping of selected portions of the seafloor and use these data to map the orientations andforms of volcanic bodies and the extent and geometry of neotectonic faulting associated with theTerror Rift.

In summary, we will

+ Complete a map of neotectonic faults and volcanic structures in the Terror Rift,

+ Interpret the structural pattern to derive the motions and stresses associated with thedevelopment of the rift,

+ Compare rift structures with faults and lineaments mapped in the Transantarctic Mountains toimprove age constraints on the structures, and

+ Integrate the late Cenozoic structural interpretations from the western Ross Sea with SouthernOcean plate boundary kinematics.

Dr. Jeannette Yen Georgia Institute of Technology School of Biology [email protected]



B-285-E/L NSF/OPP 03-24539Station: E/LRPSC POC: John EvansResearch Site(s): R/V Laurence M. GouldDates in Antarctica: Mid November

Dynamic similarity or size proportionality?: Adaptations of a polarcopepod


Deploying TeamMembers: Marc Weissburg . Jeannette Yen

Research Objectives: We will explore the feasibility of using fluid physical analyses to evaluatethe importance of viscous forces over compensatory temperature adaptations in a polarcopepod. The water of the Southern Ocean is 20ºC colder and nearly twice as viscous assubtropical seas, and the increased viscosity has significant implications for swimmingzooplankton. In each of these warm and cold aquatic environments have evolved abundantcarnivorous copepods in the family Euchaetidae.

In this exploratory study, we will compare two species from the extremes of the naturaltemperature range (0º and 23ºC) to test two alternate hypotheses on how plankton adapt to thelow temperature–high viscosity realm of the Antarctic and to evaluate the importance of viscousforces in the evolution of plankton. How do stronger viscous forces and lower temperature affectthe behavior of the antarctic species? If the antarctic congener is dynamically similar to itstropical relative, it will operate at the same Reynolds number (Re). Alternatively, if the


adaptations of the antarctic congener are proportional to size, they should occupy a higher Reregime, which suggests that the allometry of various processes is not constrained by having tooccupy a transitional fluid regime.

We designed our experiments with clearly defined outcomes on a number of copepodcharacteristics, such as swimming speed, propulsive force, and size of the sensory field. Thesecharacteristics determine not only how copepods relate to the physical world, but also how theirbiological interactions are structured. The results we derive will provide insights into majorevolutionary forces affecting plankton and provide a means of evaluating the importance of fluidphysical conditions relative to compensatory measures for temperature.

Fluid physical, biomechanical, and neurophysiological techniques have not been previouslyapplied to these polar plankton. However, if productive and feasible, these approaches willprovide ways to explore the sensory ecology of polar plankton and the role of small-scalebiological-physical-chemical interactions in a polar environment. Experimental evidencevalidating the importance of viscous effects will also justify further research using latitudinalcomparisons of other congeners along a temperature gradient in the world’s oceans.

Dr. Meng Zhou University of Massachusetts ECOS [email protected] http://www.es.umb.edu/mz/sfz/sfz.htm



B-248-L NSF/OPP 02-29966Station: R/V Laurence M. GouldRPSC POC: Don MichaelsonResearch Site(s): R/V Laurence M. Gould, Drake PassageDates in Antarctica: Mid February to mid March



Deploying TeamMembers: Ryan D. Dorland . Joseph Smith


To test this hypothesis, we will examine phytoplankton and bacterial physiological states(including responses to iron enrichment) and the structure of plankton communities from virus tozooplankton; the concentration and distribution of iron, manganese, and aluminum; andmesoscale flow patterns near the SFZ. We will examine relationships between ironconcentrations and phytoplankton in the context of the mesoscale transport of trace nutrients to


http://www.es.umb.edu/mz/sfz/sfz.htm

determine how much of the variability in biomass can be attributed to iron supply, as well as themost important sources of iron east of the Drake Passage. Our goal is to better understand howplankton productivity and community structure in the Southern Ocean are affected bybathymetry, mesoscale circulation, and nutrient distributions.



2003-2004 USAP Field SeasonAeronomy & Astrophysics

Dr. Vladimir Papitashvili, Program Manager

PI LastName

PI FirstName Project Title NSF/OPP

Award # Event #

Avery Susan Dynamics of the antarctic mesosphere-lower-thermosphere (MLT)region using ground-based radar and TIMED instrumentation

ATM 00-00957 A-284-S

Bieber John Spaceship Earth: Probing the solar wind with cosmic rays 00-00315 A-120-M/S

Binns Walter Trans-Iron Galactic Element Recorder (TIGER) / ANITA-lite NSF/NASAagreement A-149-M

Caldwell Douglas A search for extrasolar planets from the South Pole 01-26313 A-103-S

Carlstrom John Degree Angular Scale Interferometer (DASI) 00-94541 A-373-S

Carlstrom John South Pole observations to test cosmological models 01-30612 A-379-S

Deshler TerryMeasurements addressing quantitative ozone loss, polar stratosphericcloud nucleation, and large polar stratospheric particles during australwinter and spring

02-30424 A-131-M

Ejiri Masaki All-Sky imager at South Pole U.S./Japanagreement A-117-S

Engebretson MarkConjugate studies of ultra-low-frequency (ULF) waves andmagnetospheric dynamics using ground-based inductionmagnetometers at four high-latitude manned sites

02-33169 A-102-M/S

Fraser-Smith Antony The Operation of an ELF/VLF Radiometer at Arrival Heights, Antarctica 01-38126 A-100-M

Gaisser Thomas South Pole Air Shower Experiment - SPASE 2 99-80801 A-109-S

Halzen Francis IceCube 02-36449,03-31873 A-333-S

Hernandez Gonzalo Austral high-latitude atmospheric dynamics 02-29251 A-110-M/S

Holzapfel William High-resolution obervations of the cosmic microwave background(CMB) with ACBAR 02-32009 A-378-S

Inan Umran A very-low-frequency (VLF) beacon transmitter at South Pole (2001-2004) 00-93381 A-108-S

Inan Umran Global thunderstorm activity and its effects on the radiation belts andthe lower ionosphere 02-33955 A-306-P

LaBelle James A versatile electromagnetic waveform receiver for South Pole Station 00-90545 A-128-S

Lange Andrew Background Imaging of Cosmic Extragalactic Polarization (BICEP): Anexperimental probe of inflation 02-30438 A-033-S

Lessard Marc Measurement and analysis of extremely-low-frequency (ELF) waves atSouth Pole Station 01-32576 A-136-S

Mende Stephen Dayside auroral imaging at South Pole 02-30428 A-104-S

Morse Robert Antarctic Muon And Neutrino Detector Array (AMANDA) 99-80474 A-130-S

A-255-

Murcray Frank Infrared measurements of atmospheric composition over Antarctica 02-30370 M/S

Müller Dietrich Tracer-Lite II: Transition Radiation Array for Cosmic EnergeticRadiation, a balloon borne instrument

NSF/NASAagreement A-125-M

Novak Giles Mapping galactic magnetic fields with SPARO 01-30389 A-376-S

Rosenberg Theodore Riometry in Antarctica and conjugate region 00-03881 A-111-M/S

Rosenberg Theodore Polar Experiment Network for Geophysical Upper-AtmosphericInvestigations (PENGUIN) 03-34467 A-112-M

Sivjee GulamabasEffects of enhanced solar disturbances during the 2000-2002 solar-maxperiod on the antarctic mesosphere-lower-thermosphere (MLT) and Fregions composition, thermodynamics and dynamics

99-09339 A-129-S

Smith David Development and test flight of a small, automated balloon payload forobservations of terrestrial x-rays

ATM 02-33370

A-144-E/M

Stacey Gordon Wide-field imaging spectroscopy in the submillimeter: Deploying SPIFIon AST/RO 00-94605 A-377-S

Stark Antony Antarctic Submillimeter Telescope and Remote Observatory (AST/RO) 01-26090 A-371-S

Stepp William Long Duration Balloon Program (LDB) NSF/NASAagreement A-145-M

2003-2004 USAP Field SeasonBiology & Medicine

Dr. Polly Penhale, Program Manager

Long-Term Ecological Research(LTER)

Palmer Station McMurdo Station

Lake Fryxell Spill Study

PI LastName


Award # Event #

Ainley David Geographic structure of Adelie penguin populations: Demography ofpopulation expansion 01-25608 B-031-M

Amsler Charles The chemical ecology of shallow-water marine macroalgae andinvertebrates on the Antarctic Peninsula 01-25181 B-022-

L/P

Blanchette Robert Investigations on deterioration in the historic huts of Antarctica 02-29570 B-038-E/M

Bowser Samuel Remotely operable micro-environmental observatory for antarctic marinebiology research 02-16043 B-015-M

Connell Laurie Yeasts in the antarctic Dry Valleys: Biological role, distribution, andevolution 01-25611 B-019-M

Day Thomas Response of terrestrial ecosystems along the Antarctic Peninsula to achanging climate 02-30579 B-003-P

DeVries ArthurAntifreeze proteins in antarctic fishes: Integrated studies of freezingenvironments and organismal freezing avoidance, protein structure-function and mechanism, genes, and evolution

02-31006 B-005-M

Detrich William ICEFISH 2003: International collaborative expedition to collect and studyfish indigenous to sub-antarctic habitats 01-32032 B-039-N

DiTullio Giacomo Iron and light effects on Phaeocystis antarctica isolates from the Ross Sea 02-30513 B-272-M

Doran Peter McMurdo Dry Valleys Long Term Ecological Research (LTER): The role ofnatural legacy on ecosystem structure and function in a polar desert 98-10219 B-426-M

Ducklow Hugh Palmer Long Term Ecological Research Project (LTER): Climate,ecological migration, and teleconnections in an ice-dominated environment 02-17282 B-045-

L/P

Dye Timothy Culture and health in Antarctica 01-25893 B-027-M

Emslie Steven Occupation history and diet of Adélie penguins in the Ross Sea region 01-25098 B-034-M

Fountain Andrew McMurdo Dry Valleys Long Term Ecological Research (LTER): The role ofnatural legacy on ecosystem structure and function in a polar desert 98-10219 B-425-M

Fraser William Palmer Long Term Ecological Research (LTER): Climate, ecologicalmigration, and teleconnections in an ice-dominated environment 02-17282 B-013-

L/P

Fraser William Monitoring the human impact and environmental variability on AdeliePenguins at Palmer Station 01-30525 B-198-P

Frazer Thomas Complex pelagic interactions in the Southern Ocean: Deciphering theantarctic paradox

03-36469SGER B-212-E

Gargett Ann Interactive effects of UV and Vertical mixing on phytoplankton andbacterioplankton in the Ross Sea 01-25818 B-208-N

Garrott Robert Patterns and processes: Dynamics of the Erebus Bay Weddell sealpopulation 02-25110 B-009-M

Gast Rebecca Comparative and quantitative studies of protistan molecular ecology andphysiology in coastal antarctic waters 01-25833 B-207-N

Goes Joaquim Ultraviolet-radiation-induced changes in the patterns of production andcomposition of biochemical compounds antarctic marine phytoplankton 01-26150 B-206-N

Hildebrand John Mysticete whale acoustic census in the GLOBEC west antarctic projectarea 99-10007 B-239-L

Hunt George Food web structure across a large-scale ocean productivity gradient: Toppredator assemblages in the southern Indian Ocean

02–34570SGER

B-025-E

Jeffrey WadePOTATOE: Production Observations Through Another TranslatitudinalOceanic Expedition: Alaska to Antarctica; the Mother Of All Transects(MOAT)

01-27022 B-200-N

Kennicutt,II Mahlon Spatial and temporal scales of human disturbance SGER B-518-M

Kieber David Impact of solar radiation and nutrients on biogeochemical cycling of DMSPand DMS in the Ross Sea 02-30499 B-266-N

Kiene Ronald Impact of solar radiation and nutrients on biogeochemical cycling of DMSPand DMS in the Ross Sea, Antarctica 02-30497 B-002-N

Kim Stacy Community dynamics in a polar ecosystem: Benthic recovery from organicenrichment in the Antarctic 01-26319 B-010-M

Kvitek Rikk Victoria Land latitudinal gradient project: Benthic marine habitatcharacterization 02-29991 B-320-E

Lyons W. Berry Soil biodiversity and response to climate change: A regional comparison ofCape Hallett and Taylor Valley 02-29836 B-259-M

Lyons W. Berry McMurdo Dry Valleys Long Term Ecological Research (LTER): The role ofnatural legacy on ecosystem structure and function in a polar desert 98-10219 B-420-M

Marsh Adam Genomic networks for cold-adaptation in embryos of polar marineinvertebrates 02-38281 B-029-M

Martinson Douglas Palmer Long Term Ecological Research (LTER): Climate, ecologicalmigration, and teleconnections in an ice-dominated environment 02-17282 B-021-L

McKnight Diane McMurdo Dry Valleys Long Term Ecological Research (LTER): The role ofnatural legacy on ecosystem structure and function in a polar desert 98-10219 B-421-M

Measures Christopher Plankton community structure and iron distribution in the southern DrakePassage

02–30445 B-225-L

Mitchell B. Greg Plankton community structure and iron distribution in the southern DrakePassage 02-30445 B-228-L

Naveen Ron Long-term data collection at select Antarctic Peninsula visitor sites 02-30069 B-086-E

Neale Patrick Interactive effects of UV radiation and vertical mixing on phytoplankton andbacterioplankton in the Ross Sea 01-27037 B-203-N

Nevitt Gabrielle The development of olfactory foraging strategies in antarctic procellariiformseabirds 02-29775 B-035-E

Palinkas Lawrence Prevention of environment-induced decrements in mood and cognitiveperformance 00-90343 B-321-

M/S

Petzel David Drinking and sodium/potasium-ATPase alpha-subunit isoform expressionin antarctic fish 02-29462 B-012-M

Ponganis Paul Diving physiology and behavior of emperor penguins 02-29638 B-197-M

Priscu John Microbial diversity and function in the permanently ice-covered lakes of theMcMurdo Dry Valleys

MCB 02-37335 B-195-M

Priscu John McMurdo Dry Valleys Long Term Ecological Research (LTER): The role ofnatural legacy on ecosystem structure and function in a polar desert 98-10219 B-422-M

Quetin Langdon Palmer Long Term Ecological Research (LTER): Climate, ecologicalmigration, and teleconnections in an ice-dominated environment 02-17282 B-028-

L/P

Smith Raymond Palmer Long Term Ecological Research (LTER): Climate, ecologicalmigration, and teleconnections in an ice-dominated environment 02-17282 B-032-

L/P

Smith Walker Interannual variability in the Antarctic-Ross Sea (IVARS): Nutrients andseasonal production 00-87401 B-047-M

Trivelpiece Wayne Foraging behavior and demography of Pygoscelis penguins 01-25985 B-040-E

Uhle Maria Biogeochemistry of Victoria Land coastal ponds: Role in terrestrialecosystem organic carbon dynamics and structure 02-30237 B-011-M

Veit Richard Dynamics of predator-prey behavior in the Antarctic Ocean 99-83751 B-023-L

Vernet Maria Palmer Long Term Ecological Research (LTER): Climate, ecologicalmigration, and teleconnections in an ice-dominated environment 02-17282 B-016-

L/P

Virginia Ross McMurdo Dry Valleys Long Term Ecological Research (LTER): The role ofnatural legacy on ecosystem structure and function in a polar desert 98-10219 B-423-M

Wall Diana McMurdo Dry Valleys Long Term Ecological Research (LTER): The role ofnatural legacy on ecosystem structure and function in a polar desert 98-10219 B-424-M

Yen Jeannette Dynamic similarity or size proportionality?: Adaptations of a polar copepod 03-24539 B-285-E/L

Zhou Meng Plankton community structure and iron distribution in the southern DrakePassage 02-29966 B-248-L

2003-2004 USAP Field SeasonGeology & Geophysics

Dr. Rama K. Kotra, Program Manager

PI LastName


Award # Event #

Ashworth Allan Terrestrial paleoecology and sedimentary environment of the Meyer DesertFormation, Beardmore Glacier, Transantarctic Mountains 02-30696 G-294-

M

Babcock LorenPaleobiology and taphonomy of exceptionally preserved fossils from JurassicLacustrine deposits, Beardmore Glacier area and southern Victoria Land,Antarctica

02-29757 G-297-M

Blake Daniel Global climate change and the evolutionary ecology of antarctic mollusks inthe Late Eocene 99-08856 G-065-E

Butler Rhett IRIS - Global Seismograph Station at South Pole EAR 00-04370

G-090-P/S

Case Judd Evolution and biogeography of Late Cretaceous vertebrates from the JamesRoss Basin, Antarctic Peninsula 00-03844 G-061-E

Dalziel Ian A GPS network to determine crustal motions in the bedrock of the WestAntarctic Ice Sheet (WAIS) 00-03619 G-087-

M

Goodge John Geophysical mapping of the east antarctic shield adjacent to theTransantarctic Mountains 02-30280 G-291-

M

Grew Edward Boron in antarctic granulite-facies rocks: Under what conditions is boronretained in the middle crust? 02-28842 G-067-E

Hammer William Vertebrate Paleontology of the Triassic to Jurassic sedimentary sequence inthe Beardmore Glacier area of Antarctica 02-29698 G-298-

M

Harvey Ralph The Antarctic Search for Meteorites (ANSMET) 99-80452 G-058-M

Johns Bjorn University NAVSTAR Consortium (UNAVCO) GPS survey support EAR 99-03413

G-295-M

Kemerait Robert Dry Valley seismic project NSF/OPP-DoD MOA

G-078-M

Kyle Philip Mount Erebus Volcano Observatory and Laboratory (MEVOL) 02-29305 G-081-M

Luyendyk Bruce Antarctic cretaceous-Cenozoic climate, glaciation, and tectonics: Sitesurveys for drilling from the edge of the Ross Ice Shelf 00-88143 G-152-N

Miller Molly Late Paleozoic-Mesozoic fauna, environment, climate, and basinal history:Beardmore Glacier area, Tranantarctic Mountains 01-26146 G-094-

M

Mullins Jerry Geodesy and geospatial program 02-33246 G-052-M/P/S

Renne Paul Calibration of cosmogenic argon production rates in Antarctica 01-25194 G-064-M

Retallack Gregory Permian-Triassic mass extinction in Antarctica 02-30086 G-299-M

Stock Joann Improved Cenozoic plate reconstructions of the circum-Antarctic Region 01-26334 G-071-N

Geomagnetic field as recorded in the Mount Erebus Volcanic Province: Key G-182-

Tauxe Lisa to field structure at high southern latitudes 02-29403 M

Taylor Edith Permian and Triassic floras from the Beardmore Glacier region: Icehouse togreenhouse? 01-26230 G-095-

M

Taylor Edith Shackleton Glacier area: Evolution of vegetation during the Triassic 02-29877 G-293-M

Wiens Douglas A broadband seismic experiment to investigate deep continental structureacross the east-west Antarctic boundary 99-09603 G-089-

M

Wilson Terry Transantarctic Mountains deformation network: GPS measurements ofneotectonic motion in the antarctic interior 02-30285 G-079-

M

Wilson Terry Neotectonic structure of Terror Rift, Western Ross Sea 01-25624 G-099-N

2003-2004 USAP Field SeasonGlaciology

Dr. Julie Palais, Program Manager

PI Last Name PI FirstName Project Title NSF/OPP

Award # Event #

Anandakrishnan Sridhar Tidal modulation of ice stream flow 02-29629 I-205-M

Conway Howard Western divide WAISCORES site selection 00-87345 I-209-M

Conway Howard Glacial history of Ridge AB 00-87144 I-210-M

Cuffey Kurt Dynamics and climatic response of the Taylor Glacier system. 01-25579 I-161-M

Hall BrendaMillennial-scale fluctuations of Dry Valleys lakes: A test of Implicationsfor regional climate variability and the interhemispheric (a)synchrony ofclimate change

01-24014 I-196-M

Hamilton Gordon Glaciology of blue ice areas in Antarctica 02-29245 I-178-M

Kreutz Karl Dry Valleys Late Holocene climate variability 02-28052 I-191-M

MacAyeal Douglas Collaborative research of Earth's largest icebergs 02-29546 I-190-M

Mayewski PaulA science management office for the United States component of theInternational Trans Antarctic Scientific Expedition (ITASE) -- South Poleto Northern Victoria Land

02-29573 I-153-M

Scambos Theodore Characteristics of snow megadunes and their potential effects on icecore interpretation 01-25570 I-186-M

Severinghaus Jeffrey How thick is the convective zone?: A study of firn air in the megadunesnear Vostok 02-30452 I-184-M

Sowers Todd Refining a 500-thousand-year climate record from the Mt. Moulton blueice field in West Antarctica 02-30021 I-177-M

Stone John Late Quaternary history of Reedy Glacier 02-29314 I-175-M/S

Thiemens Mark South Pole Atmospheric Nitrate Isotopic Analysis (SPANIA) 01-25761 I-165-M/S

2003-2004 USAP Field SeasonOceans & Climate

Dr. Bernhard Lettau, Program Manager

PI LastName


Award # Event #

Chereskin Teresa Shipboard acoustic Doppler current profiling aboard the research vesselLaurence M. Gould 98-16226 O-317-L

Eicken Hajo Measurements and improved parameterizations of the thermal conductivityand heat flow through first-year sea ice 01-26007 O-253-

M

Eisele Fred Antarctic Troposphere Chemistry Investigation (ANTCI) 02-30246 O-176-M/S

Firing Eric Shipboard acoustic Doppler current profiling aboard the research vesselNathaniel B. Palmer 98-16226 O-315-N

Gordon Arnold ANSLOPE: Cross slope exchanges at the antarctic slope front 01-25172 O-215-N

Hansen Anthony Solar/wind powered instrumentation module development for polarenvironmental research

DBI 01-19793

O-314-M

Hofmann Dave South Pole monitoring for climatic change: U.S. Department of CommerceNOAA Climate Monitoring and Diagnostic Laboratory

NOAA/NSFagreement O-257-S

Hofmann David Collection of atmospheric air for the NOAA/CMDL worldwide flask samplingnetwork

NOAA/NSFagreement O-264-P

Keeling Ralph A study of atmospheric oxygen variability in relation to annual to decadalvariations in terrestrial and marine ecosystems

ATM 00-00923

O-204-P/S

Sanderson Colin Remote Atmospheric Measurements Program (RAMP) of the University ofMiami / U.S. Department of Energy's Environmental Measurements Lab

MOU withDOE

O-275-P/S

Sprintall Janet The Drake Passage high density XBT/XCTD program 00-03618 O-260-L

Stearns Charles Antarctic Meteorological Research Center (AMRC) (2002-2005) 01-26262 O-202-M/P/S

Stearns Charles Antarctic Automatic Weather Station Program (AWS): 2001-2004 00-88058 O-283-M/P/S

Steffen Konrad AMSR sea ice validation during the R/V Laurence M. Gould's traverse toAntarctica

NASAaward O-309-L

Takahashi Taro Mesoscale, seasonal and inter-annual variability of surface water CO2 inthe Drake Passage 00-03609 O-214-L

Walden Von Validation of the Atmospheric Infrared Sounder (AIRS) over the AntarcticPlateau

NASAaward

O-213-M

Warren Stephen Solar radiation processes on the East Antarctic Plateau 00-03826 O-201-M

2003-2004 USAP Field SeasonArtists & Writers

Mr. Guy Guthrige, Program Manager

PI LastName

PI FirstName Project Title Event #

Armstrong Jennifer Ice Through the Ages: A nonfiction young adult book W-219-M/S

Baskin Yvonne Soil biodiversity book W-220-M

Bledsoe Lucy Palmer Station children's novel W-218-P

Cokinos Christopher The fallen sky: Eccentrics and scientists in pursuit of shooting stars W-223-M

Conrad Lawrence(Larry) Field guide to antarctic features: McMurdo Sound region W-224-

M

Larson Edward History of science in Antarctica W-221-M


Projects not based at a USAP station


PI LastName


G-065-E 99-08856 Blake Daniel Global climate change and the evolutionary ecology of antarctic mollusks inthe Late Eocene

G-061-E 00-03844 Case Judd Evolution and biogeography of Late Cretaceous vertebrates from the JamesRoss Basin, Antarctic Peninsula

B-212-E 03-36469SGER Frazer Thomas Complex pelagic interactions in the Southern Ocean: Deciphering the

antarctic paradox

G-067-E 02-28842 Grew Edward Boron in antarctic granulite-facies rocks: Under what conditions is boronretained in the middle crust?

B-025-E02–34570SGER

Hunt George Food web structure across a large-scale ocean productivity gradient: Toppredator assemblages in the southern Indian Ocean

B-086-E 02-30069 Naveen Ron Long-term data collection at select Antarctic Peninsula visitor sites

B-035-E 02-29775 Nevitt Gabrielle The development of olfactory foraging strategies in antarctic procellariiformseabirds

B-040-E 01-25985 Trivelpiece Wayne Foraging behavior and demography of Pygoscelis penguins


2003-2004 USAP Field SeasonPalmer Station LTER: Climate migration,

ecological response and teleconnections in anice-dominated environment

ProjectManager:

Dr. Hugh DucklowVirginia Institute of MarineSciencesSchool of Marine SciencesThe College of William andMaryBox 1346Gloucester Point, [email protected]


List of 2003-2004 Palmer Station LTER projects

The Palmer Long Term Ecological Research (LTER) project is focused on one

major ecological issue: To what extent does the advance and retreat of sea ice eachyear physically determine spatial and temporal changes in the structure and functionof the antarctic marine ecosystem?

Evidence shows this dynamic variability of sea ice to have an important (perhapsdeterminant) impact on all levels of the food web, from total annual primary productionto breeding success in top predators. For example, variability in sea ice may affectprey and predators directly by controlling access to open water or preferred habitats.That variability may affect prey and predators indirectly as changes in the sea icecover affect other species that serve as food. Four hypotheses drive current PalmerLTER research:

The timing and magnitude of seasonal primary production,The dynamics of the microbial loop and particle sedimentation,Krill abundance, distribution and recruitment,Survivorship and reproductive success of top predator

These factors probably differ for key species since the magnitude and timing of seaice changes can have specific local impacts. What remains unclear are theimplications for the whole antarctic ecosystem. As one of the basic examples, greatersea ice areal coverage promotes more available krill which enhances the survivorshipand reproductive success of Adelie penguins.



General objectives of the Palmer LTER project are:

Document the interannual variability of annual sea ice and the correspondingphysics, chemistry, optics, and primary production within the study area,Document the life history parameters of secondary producers and top predators,Quantify the processes that cause variation in physical forcing and thesubsequent biological response among the representative trophic levels,Construct models that will link ecosystem processes to environmental variablesand which will also simulate spatial/temporal ecosystem relationships,Employ those models to predict and validate ice/ecosystem dynamics.

A key challenge for the Palmer LTER project is to characterize and understand themany cross-linkages that have developed in the antarctic ecosystem. Environmentalphenomena vary over time and across areas, having both physical and biologicalconsequences. These changes in turn can develop other loops and linkages thatinfluence each other.

PrincipalInvestigator Institution Event

Number Component

Hugh Ducklow College of William and Mary B-045-L/P Project Manager

William R. Fraser Polar Oceans Research Group B-013-L/P Seabird

Douglas G.Martinson Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory B-021-L Modeling

Robin Ross University of California Santa Barbara B-028-L/P ZooplanktonRaymond Smith University of California Santa Barbara B-032-L/P Bio-opticalMaria Vernet Scripps Institution of Oceanography B-016-L/P Phytoplankton ecology

2003-2004 USAP Field SeasonMcMurdo Dry Valleys LTER: The role of naturallegacy on ecosystem structure and function in a

polar desert

ProjectManager:

Dr. W. Berry LyonsOhio State UniversityByrd Polar Research Center1090 Carmack Road, 108 ScottHallColumbus, OH [email protected]

http://huey.colorado.edu

List of 2003-2004 McMurdo LTER projects

The largest ice-free area in Antarctica can be found in the McMurdo Dry Valleys

on the western shore of McMurdo Sound. Among the most extreme deserts in theworld, the Dry Valleys are the coldest and driest of all LTER sites. Consequently,the biological systems are limited to microbial populations, microinvertebrates,mosses, and lichens. Yet complex trophic interactions and biogeochemical nutrientcycles develop in the lakes, streams, and soils of the Dry Valleys. In the australsummer, solar energy produces glacial melt water, providing vital water andnutrients that are a primary influence on the ecosystems. Such material transportand climatic influences shape all ecosystems, but nowhere is this more apparentthan in the McMurdo Dry Valleys.

In 1993, this region was selected as a study site for the National ScienceFoundation's Long Term Ecological Research (LTER) program. During the first sixyears, investigators studied the perennially ice-covered lakes, ephemeral streams,and extensive areas of soils to assess the role of physical constraints on thestructure and function of the ecosystem. Clearly, the production of liquid water inboth terrestrial and aquatic portions or this environment is a primary driver inecosystem dynamics. Thus, the role of present-day climate variation is extremelyimportant. However, one of the most significant discoveries was that past climaticlegacies strongly overprint the present ecological conditions in the McMurdo DryValleys.

The McMurdo LTER project focuses on the aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems inthe Dry Valleys landscape as a context to study biological processes and to explorematerial transport and migration. During the second phase of this LTER project, theLTER researchers will continue to investigate the McMurdo Dry Valleys as an "end-



member" system, hoping to better ascertain the role of the past climatic legacies onecosystem structure and function. They will test a series of eight hypotheses inthree major focus areas -- hydrology, biological activity/diversity andbiogeochemical processes.

Understanding the structure and function of the McMurdo Dry Valleys ecosystemrequires understanding hydrological response to climate -- both now and in thepast. Current patterns of biological activity and diversity reflect both past andpresent distributions of water, nutrients, organic carbon, and biota. Biogeochemicalprocesses responsible for the transport, immobilization, and mineralization ofnutrients and other chemicals provide the linkages between the region's biota andthe physical environment. The timing, duration, and location of biogeochemicalprocesses in the past and present are controlled by water availability. The LTERresearchers continue to focus on the integration of the biological processes withinand among the lakes, streams, and terrestrial ecosystems that comprise theMcMurdo Dry Valleys landscape. The interdisciplinary research team will continueto use modeling and other integrative studies to synthesize data and to examine theMcMurdo Dry Valleys ecosystem.

PrincipalInvestigator Institution Event

Number Component

Peter T. Doran University of Illinois,Chicago B-426 Paleoclimatology, paleoecology,

meteorologyAndrew G.Fountain

Portland StateUniversity B-425 Glacier mass balance, melt and energy

balanceW. Berry Lyons Ohio State University B-420 Chemistry of streams, lakes, and glaciersDiane M.McKnight

University of ColoradoBoulder B-421 Flow, sediment transport, and productivity

of streams

John C. Priscu Montana StateUniversity Bozeman B-422 Lake pelagic and benthic productivity and

microbial food websRoss A. Virginia Dartmouth College B-423 Soil productivity

Diana H. Wall Colorado StateUniversity B-424 Soil productivity

2003-2004 USAP Field SeasonStudy of consequences of a January 2003hydrocarbon spill on the ice cover of Lake

Fryxell, McMurdo Dry Valleys

PrincipalInvestigators:

Fabien Kenig and Peter DoranUniversity of llinois, Chicago NSF/OPP 03–46316

John Priscu and Edward AdamsMontana State niversity,Bozeman NSF/OPP 03–46272

W. Berry Lyons and AnneCareyOhio State University NSF/OPP 03–47219

Taylor Valley in the McMurdo Dry Valleys of East Antarctica is the site of a Long-

Term Ecological Research (LTER) project. The pristine Taylor Valley has threemajor closed-basin, perennially ice-covered lakes (Hoare, Fryxell and Bonney). On17 January 2003, a Bell 212 helicopter crashed on the 5-meter-thick ice cover ofLake Fryxell, spilling about 730 liters of diesel fuel, as well as small amounts ofsynthetic lubricants and hydraulic fluids. Although cleanup efforts by personnelbased at McMurdo Station began within four days of the crash, at least half of thespilled fluids could not be recovered because of the condition of the ice and theunavoidable close of the field season in early February, which precluded furtheraccess to the site. These fluids will remain trapped in the ice until the spring meltseason starts in December 2003. The site will become accessible in November2003, when ice cores and water samples can be collected for detailed analyses. .

This coordinated research effort is aimed at documenting the fate and transport

of hydrocarbons within the ice and water of the lake. Our goals are to understandthe physical, chemical, and biological changes that have occurred since the spilland what, if any, its longer-term impact will be. The results of our research will alsoprovide important information to help improve accident response policies in the DryValleys.

Components:

Fabien Kenig and Peter DoranUniversity of llinois, Chicago NSF/OPP 03–46316

Study of natural attenuation of contaminants derived from a January2003 helicopter fluids spill at Lake Fryxell (McMurdo Dry Valleys), aLong-Term Ecological Research site

In this component of the project, we will document the natural attenuation ofhelicopter fluids in the lake ice. We have two major objectives:

Assess the level of disturbance in the lake ecosystem by evaluating thechanges in the lipid constituents of Lake Fryxell ice caused by this crash.Over a 2-year period, we will compare lipids analyzed in preaccident lakewater and surface sediments with the contaminant (jet fuel, lubrication oil, andtransmission fluids), as well as postaccident ice-cover samples, lake watersamples, and surface sediments.Quantify and evaluate the level of natural attenuation (evaporation andbiodegradation) of the composition of spilled fluids in the ice cover of thefrozen lake. Graduate students will participate in this research.

Quantify and evaluate the level of natural attenuation (evaporation andbiodegradation) of the composition of spilled fluids in the ice cover of thefrozen lake. Graduate students will participate in this research.

John Priscu and Edward AdamsMontana State niversity, Bozeman NSF/OPP 03–46272

Physical and biological consequences of a hydrocarbon spill on the icecover of Lake Fryxell

In this component of the project, we will conduct a variety of physical and biologicalexperiments to determine the fate of hydrocarbons within the ice and their influenceon biological activity and diversity. Undergraduate, graduate, and postdoctoralstudents will participate in this research.

W. Berry Lyons and Anne CareyOhio State University NSF/OPP 03–47219

Field sampling coordination and mathematical modeling of a hydrocarbon

spill on the ice cover of Lake Fryxell

In this component of the project, we will coordinate the field sampling in the 2003–2004 season, integrate the data, and develop a mathematical model to betterpredict hydrocarbon movement within the ice cover of the lake.

Date post:	01-Oct-2020
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2003-2004 USAP Field Season Table of Contents Project Indexes … · 2014. 1. 30. · Winter Season...

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